NBA: Clippers head into break with win over Suns

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Terance Mann #14 of the LA Clippers makes a shot against the Phoenix Suns during the second half of an NBA game at Footprint Center on February 16, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. Christian Petersen/Getty Images/AFP

Terance Mann and Paul George each scored 26 points on Thursday in the Los Angeles Clippers’ 116-107 win over the Phoenix Suns, in what may be the final game before Kevin Durant makes his debut with the team.

Kawhi Leonard added 16 points after a scoreless first half, while Ivica Zubac scored 13 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as the Clippers won for the fourth time in their last six games.

Josh Okogie scored 24 points and Devin Booker added 19 for the Suns, who lost just twice in their past seven games. Terrence Ross contributed 16 points in 25 minutes in his Phoenix debut after his contract was purchased by the Orlando Magic on Sunday.

Deandre Ayton scored 18 points for the Suns. Chris Paul had five points and 11 assists, and his four steals passed Michael Jordan for third on the NBA’s all-time list with 2,515. Jordan has 2,514 steals.

The game is the last game in the NBA before the All-Star break, with Durant scheduled to play for the Suns when they resume play against the Oklahoma City Thunder on February 24. Durant, who has been sidelined with a knee injury, was acquired by Phoenix from the Brooklyn Nets in a four-team trade last week.

The Clippers led by 10 points in the first quarter and held a 28-23 advantage after the opening period. After Phoenix pulled away in the second quarter, Los Angeles took a 54-52 lead into halftime.

After starting the game 0-for-9 from the field, Leonard made his first field goal with 4:01 left in the third quarter, and the Clippers went up 91-84 going into the final quarter. Leonard finished the third quarter with 11 points.

The Clippers took a 103-93 lead with 7:06 left after two free throws from George, and the Suns never got closer than five points. Leonard sealed the victory with a sharp dunk with 1:59 left and added a three-point play for a 116-105 lead with 57 seconds left.

Eric Gordon, Bones Hyland and Mason Plumlee combined for 28 points for the Clippers as each played in their second game with the team since being acquired via trade last week.