Leonard scores 25, leads Clippers past Thunder

Los Angeles Clipper’s Kawhi Leonard (2) goes against Oklahoma City Thunder’s Terrance Ferguson (23) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, March, 3, 2020. (AP Photo/Garett Fisbeck)

OKLAHOMA CITY — 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.