Kawhi Leonard powers Clippers past Wizards 119 to 105 as Los Angeles surge continues

Inglewood, Calif — Kawhi Leonard delivered an efficient 33 point performance as the Los Angeles Clippers continued their midseason surge, defeating the Washington Wizards 119 to 105 on Wednesday night at Intuit Dome.

Kawhi scored 33 points in just 30 minutes while operating under a minutes restriction, shooting 7 of 11 from three point range and closing the game with a decisive fourth quarter stretch. James Harden added 22 points and continued to anchor the offense as Los Angeles extended its winning streak to four games.

The Clippers improved to 11 and 2 since December 20 after opening the season 6 and 21, a turnaround that has coincided with Leonard’s return to consistent action and improved lineup stability under head coach Tyronn Lue. Rookie center Yanic Konan Niederhauser scored 16 points and Jordan Miller posted 11 points and 10 rebounds, providing key depth with the Clippers shorthanded in the front court.

Los Angeles played without starting center Ivica Zubac, sidelined by an ankle injury, and forward John Collins, who missed the game with a groin issue. Despite the absences, the Clippers controlled the tempo early, building a 37 to 22 first quarter lead and stretching the margin to as many as 24 points in the first half before entering the break ahead 70 to 51.

Washington made a strong push after halftime, opening the third quarter on a 30 to 13 run to cut the deficit to 83 to 81 with just over three minutes remaining in the period. The Clippers responded by tightening defensively and leaning on Leonard and Harden to regain separation, taking a 96 to 89 lead into the fourth quarter.

Kawhi took over early in the final frame, scoring 11 consecutive points. His three pointer with 6 minutes and 14 seconds remaining pushed the lead to 110 to 95 and effectively sealed the outcome.

Kyshawn George led the Wizards with 23 points, while Khris Middleton finished with 17. Marvin Bagley III added 15 points and 11 rebounds. Washington remained short handed, continuing to adjust to a reworked roster and playing without several rotation pieces. Rookie center Alex Sarr was ejected late in the second quarter after receiving his second technical foul.

From a season outlook perspective, the Clippers’ recent stretch reflects a growing balance between star production and bench contribution, a critical factor as Leonard’s workload continues to be managed. Harden’s steady playmaking and the emergence of younger role players have stabilized a roster that struggled early with injuries.

Washington, now on a four game road trip, continues to search for consistency as it integrates new lineups and navigates injuries. The Wizards have dropped four straight games and will need improved defensive execution to stay competitive during the trip.

The Wizards continue their road swing Friday night at Sacramento.

The Clippers travel to Toronto on Friday, a matchup that will test their momentum against a physical Raptors team.