James Harden delivered a playmaking masterclass, tying his season high with 17 assists as the Los Angeles Clippers battled the New Orleans Pelicans in a high-scoring affair on Tuesday night. The game featured offensive fireworks from both teams down the stretch.
Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 29 points, reaching that mark with just nine seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. The All-Star forward had previously totaled 27 points with 20 seconds left in the final period.
New Orleans received significant contributions from their backcourt, with CJ McCollum putting up 23 points for the Pelicans. McCollum reached 22 points with 14 seconds remaining before adding another point moments later.
Zion Williamson made a massive impact in the fourth quarter, accounting for 92% of his team's points during the crucial period. The explosive forward contributed 10 points and 5 assists, creating 13 points from his assists alone in the final frame.
The game remained tightly contested throughout the fourth quarter, with the score sitting at 116-119 in favor of New Orleans with 1:15 remaining when Harden recorded his season-tying assist total. The Pelicans ultimately secured the 125-120 victory in the closing seconds.
Harden's playmaking performance highlights his continued evolution as a facilitator, while Williamson's fourth-quarter dominance demonstrates his ability to take over games when it matters most. Both teams showcased offensive firepower that could have playoff implications as the season progresses.
