Clippers vs Knicks: Kawhi Leonard’s 29 Points Fuel Epic .500 Comeback After Knicks’ Costly Turnovers
Kawhi Leonard put on an impressive performance, scoring 29 points and leading the LA Clippers to a thrilling 126-118 win against the New York Knicks on March 9, 2026, at Intuit Dome. This victory brought the Clippers back to a .500 record (32-32) for the first time since November, ending a tough start to the season.
Leonard’s Scoring Streak Shines
Leonard continued his strong performance, scoring over 20 points for the 42nd game in a row; this is the second-longest active streak in the NBA. He scored 10 consecutive points during a first-half battle with Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns, helping LA secure a 64-55 lead at halftime after starting the game with four quick threes. Bennedict Mathurin came off the bench to slam in 28 points, including a key three-point play late in the game. Darius Garland contributed 23 points and seven assists. The Clippers’ depth proved too much for New York in the final moments.
Knicks’ Turnovers Seal Sloppy Fate
Despite fan chants of “Let’s go Knicks!” pushing a late rally, reducing a 15-point gap to five, the Knicks stumbled with careless turnovers in the final minutes. Jalen Brunson scored 28 points. Towns shone with 35 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists before fouling out. OG Anunoby added 22 points. New York split the season series but hasn’t won in LA since 2022. They have now lost three of their last four games and are currently third in the East.
Clippers’ Hot March Surge
After a rough 6-21 start, LA has won five of six games in March and is building momentum for the Play-In Tournament. Next, the Clippers will host Minnesota while the Knicks visit Utah. This fast-paced game highlighted Leonard’s consistency, contrasting with the Knicks’ mistakes; it was pure NBA drama.
FAQs
1. What was Kawhi Leonard’s impact in Clippers vs Knicks?
Leonard scored 29 points, including 10 straight in the first half, extending his 42-game 20+ point streak to lead LA’s 126-118 win.
2. How did the Knicks’ turnovers hurt them?
Sloppy plays in the final minutes let Clippers pull away after NY closed to within five, despite Towns’ 35-12-7 line.
3. What’s the Clippers’ record after beating the Knicks?
Now 32-32 (.500) for first time since November, with 5-1 March record after early 6-21 skid.
Summary:
Clippers beat Knicks 126-118 as Leonard scores 29, Mathurin 28. LA reaches .500 (32-32) post-6-21 slump; Knicks rally falls short on turnovers. 42nd 20+ pt streak for Kawhi!
