Kawhi Leonard stepped up late in the game, converting two 3-point plays and making a crucial block to help the Los Angeles Clippers secure a contentious 108-107 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night.
Kelly Oubre Jr. attempted a shot at the rim but was blocked by Leonard, leading to Sixers coach Nick Nurse believing there should have been a foul called on Paul George.
After the game, the officiating crew admitted that a foul should have been called on the last play, giving Oubre a chance to shoot free throws and potentially win the game.
Nurse expressed his frustration, mentioning the contact he observed and comparing it to previous calls made during the game. Referee Kevin Scott confirmed the crew’s realization during post-game review, acknowledging a slight drift by George that should have resulted in a foul call.
Despite a slow start in the first half, Leonard bounced back to contribute 17 points and 10 rebounds, emphasizing the team’s need to remain focused to stay in the game. George led the Clippers with 22 points, while James Harden, facing his former team, contributed 16 points and 14 assists.
The 76ers were led by Tyrese Maxey’s 26 points, with Oubre adding 17 points to the team’s effort. Leonard’s late-game heroics, including a crucial reverse layup and free throw, sealed the victory for the Clippers.
Harden, who faced boos from the Philadelphia crowd, expressed indifference towards the reception and ruled out any possibility of reconciling with Daryl Morey, the president of basketball operations for the 76ers, with whom he had a public dispute.
