The Los Angeles Clippers delivered a commanding performance against the Brooklyn Nets, winning 126-89 on Sunday night in the NBA. Croatian center Ivica Zubac contributed to the victory with a solid showing, registering 11 points and 10 rebounds in just 23 minutes of play. He shot 4-for-5 from the field and converted 3 of 4 free throw attempts, along with one assist and a win in the turnover battle.
The game was dominantly controlled by the Clippers, especially in the second quarter where they surged ahead 47-14, with both Kawhi Leonard and James Harden showcasing their scoring prowess with 15 points each during that period—outscoring the entire Nets team. By halftime, the Clippers had established a significant lead of 68-37, leading to most of their star players, including Zubac, resting for much of the second half. Leonard ultimately led the team with 28 points, along with five rebounds, while Harden contributed 19 points, six rebounds, and eight assists.
In another matchup, the Detroit Pistons, currently the best team in the Eastern Conference, triumphed over the Sacramento Kings with a score of 139-116. Dario Šarić did not participate for Sacramento, who faced their fifth consecutive loss. Cade Cunningham was the standout for Detroit, scoring 29 points alongside 11 assists and five rebounds, while Jalen Duren provided support with 18 points and six rebounds. Detroit’s sharpshooting from beyond the arc was impressive, as they connected on 16 of 31 three-point attempts.
Surprising news came from New Orleans, where the team at the bottom of the Western Conference faced off against the San Antonio Spurs. The Pelicans secured a 104-95 victory despite overcoming a 20-point deficit in the second quarter. Both Saddiq Bey and Zion Williamson contributed 24 points, each recording ten rebounds and four assists. Croatian player Karlo Matković saw 11 and a half minutes on the court and scored two points, marking participation in a crucial win for his team.
In a closely contested game, the Toronto Raptors edged out the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, 103-101. Immanuel Quickley emerged as a key player for Toronto, scoring five points in the last minute of play, finishing with 23 points and 11 rebounds, which added to their fourth consecutive victory. Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City with 24 points but could not prevent his team from suffering their tenth loss of the season.
The night was rounded out by the Golden State Warriors overpowering the Minnesota Timberwolves with an 111-85 victory, driven by a commanding third quarter where they outscored Minnesota 38-17. Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 26 points and seven assists, while Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards was the top scorer for his team with 32 points, albeit with eight turnovers.
These games highlight the ever-shifting dynamics in the NBA, showcasing both rising teams and seasoned contenders as the season progresses.