In the NBA regular season game on December 9, the Utah Jazz host the Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers' form has been picking up lately, especially after beating the Denver Nuggets in their last game, where they have won two in a row.
In the first quarter of the game, the Clippers dominated the game and quickly took the initiative on the field. With a 7-0 run, they extended their lead to double digits at one point. The Jazz managed to contain the decline by scoring consecutive points while they were behind, trying to close the gap with the Clippers. However, heading into the second quarter, the Clippers were still in control of the game. They started the second quarter with a 7-2 offensive run that stabilized the situation. Then, led by Harden, the Clippers sent another 8-2 offensive run to extend the halftime lead to 13 points. After returning from the break, the Jazz relied on three consecutive three-pointers at the start of the third quarter to narrow the margin to single digits. However, the Clippers can always score at critical moments, especially Xiaoka and George played 2+1 in two consecutive rounds, leaving the Jazz helpless. The margin was quickly stretched back to double digits. After that, the Clippers firmly controlled the game, and as Xiaoka and George hit consecutive three-pointers in the final period, the margin was stretched to 18 points, completely killing the suspense of the game. In the end, the Clippers ushered in a three-game winning streak on the road with a light win over the Jazz.
This game fully demonstrated the strength and resilience of the Clippers. Despite the Jazz's best at home, the Clippers were able to take control of the game in crunch time with accurate shooting and defense. The outstanding performances of Carl and George added to the Clippers' victory. The loss was undoubtedly a heavy blow for the Jazz, who will need to adjust their form as soon as possible in order to get back to winning ways in future games.