The Los Angeles Clippers were not involved in Tuesday’s NBA action, but they emerged as the major victors of the evening due to their dominant run that has been ongoing since the start of December.
The season got off to a dreadful start for the Clippers. They stumbled to a 3-7 record, losing the first six games after acquiring James Harden. By December, they were 8-10 and in 11th place in the Western Conference. However, things have been steadily improving ever since.
Since December 1st, LA has played 31 games and won 26 of them. By the time 2024 rolled around, they had climbed up to 4th place. But they didn’t stop there. With a win over the Hawks on Monday, the Clippers moved into 3rd place, just half a game behind the Timberwolves and Thunder, who were tied for first.
Both of the top teams in the West were in action on Tuesday, and the outcomes couldn’t have been better for the Clippers. In the Timberwolves vs Bulls game, Minnesota had a 23-point lead early in the 3rd quarter but ended up losing in overtime. The Thunder also suffered a defeat at the hands of the Jazz.
With both Minnesota and OKC losing, there is now a four-way tie at the top of the Western Conference. The Thunder, Timberwolves, and Nuggets all have a record of 35-16, with tie-breakers determining their positions. However, due to having played two fewer games, the Clippers’ 34-15 record gives them the best winning percentage and puts them in first place.
One remarkable aspect of the Clippers’ impressive streak is their ability to win on the road. During their recent seven-game road trip, they only lost once to the Cavaliers, who are currently the top team in the East. They will now play their next three games at home before facing the Warriors just before the NBA All-Star break.