Leonard scores 25, leads Clippers past Thunder 109-94

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Kawhi Leonard scored 25 points to help the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 109-94 on Tuesday night.

Montrezl Harrell and former Thunder player Paul George each added 16 points for the Clippers, who won their fifth straight. George received a warm reception from Oklahoma City’s fans. The Thunder traded him last summer.

Dennis Schroder scored 24 points and former Clippers Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Danilo Gallinari each scored 15 for the Thunder, who lost their second straight. The 15-point margin matched Oklahoma City’s worst home loss of the season.

The Clippers finished the second quarter strong and led 59-47 at halftime. Leonard led Los Angeles with 16 points on 7-for-11 shooting while Schroder scored 13 points in the first half for the Thunder.

The Clippers continued to roll and led 89-70 after the third period. George scored eight points in the third quarter after a quiet first half.

Los Angeles held a comfortable lead throughout the fourth quarter.

TIP-INS

Clippers: George had a kid-friendly fishing dock dedicated on Monday at South Lakes Park in Oklahoma City. George is an avid fisherman. … Shot 63.6% in the first quarter to lead 38-27. … F/C Harrell limped off the court in the third quarter with a left leg injury. … Former Thunder G Reggie Jackson scored seven points on 3-for-8 shooting. He was booed during pregame introductions.

Thunder: Paul was called for a technical foul in the first quarter. … Made just 4 of 9 free throws in the first half. … Failed to score 100 points for the second straight game. It is only the second time this season Oklahoma City has gone back-to back games without reaching the century mark. The other time was the first two games of the season.

UP NEXT

Clippers: Visit the Houston Rockets on Thursday.

Thunder: Visit the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday.