The LA Clippers vs the Brooklyn Nets is no less than an All-star game, with arguably the best rosters from each conference playing one another. The Clippers are already ruling the Western Conference, while the Nets are advancing up the ladder of the EC. Both the teams combine for the five titans of the league, and hence a tight clash was expected. 

Both sides are heavy on their offense; Nicolas Batum’s back-to-back threes, in the beginning, made it clear that it would be a high-scoring game. But a picture-perfect hustle between Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving took the spotlight.

When Kawhi Leonard overpowered Kyrie Irving

The Claw showcased why he deserved that nickname when he punished Kyrie Irving at the rim. A focused Ky was approaching the paint when Kawhi completely blocked his path and allowed him no room to either assist or take a shot. In this battle between a 6’2” and 6’7” player, the bigger man won and almost embarrassed the Nets’ star. 

Kawhi Leonard enjoyed a 12-point first quarter, converting fadeaway jump shots and all of his FTs. Kyrie, on the other hand, stood at 9 points in Q1. He missed a clutch three and dropped his chance to match Kawhi’s score. The Clippers took a formidable 8-point lead in that initial quarter. 

LA Clippers vs Brooklyn Nets: Who’s better?

Both the teams are astounding at their offense. But it is the Brooklyn Nets who are on the struggling side with their porous defense. Their loss against the non-performing Washington Wizards, where they allowed the opponents to score close to 150 points, was clear proof of this. 

The LA Clippers, however, are looking stronger than they were last season. On their way to the conference’s top position, they defeated the likes of the Lakers and Phoenix Suns, among other good teams. Kawhi Leonard is averaging close to 26 ppg and Paul George is making an equal if not better effort.

In their ongoing game against the Nets, the Clippers are leading 58-57 by half-time. For the Nets, James Harden is proving to be the assist leader while Ky (15 points) is handling the offense very well.

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