INGLEWOOD – Kawhi Leonard shrugged off a bloodied nose to erupt for 45 points—including 20 in the fourth quarter—leading the Los Angeles Clippers to a 118-101 victory over the Utah Jazz on January 1, 2026. The win extended the Clippers’ season-best streak to six games, showcasing Leonard’s unstoppable form amid a gritty comeback from a blown 21-point lead.
Leonard, playing with visible blood from a mid-game scratch, was the lone starter on the floor for much of the fourth. He singlehandedly matched Utah’s scoring in the period, hitting four threes during a 7-straight trey barrage that sealed the game. “The Claw” finished 16-of-29 from the field (6-of-16 from deep), adding 7 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks.
James Harden chipped in 20 points, while the Clippers overcame a second-quarter collapse (outscored 33-22) to dominate the paint and bench scoring. Utah, missing key players like Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George, couldn’t sustain their rally.
This performance—Leonard’s third 40+ point game in his last five—cements his scorching streak (averaging ~38 PPG recently) and vaults the Clippers into playoff contention.
Game Highlights Snapshot:
| Player (Clippers) | Points | Rebounds | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kawhi Leonard | 45 | 7 | 20 in Q4; bloodied nose; 6 3PM |
| James Harden | 20 | – | Steady playmaking |