The Los Angeles Clippers (35-29) reinforced their grip on the eight seed with a hard-fought 111-110 overtime victory against the Sacramento Kings (33-30) on March 10.
Los Angeles Clippers Top Performers:
James Harden 29 PTS | 9 REB | 11 AST | 51.3 FPS
Harden remains an explosive scorer and is currently on a four-game streak of scoring 20+ points, though that’s the longest he has managed this season due to his inefficiency. However, he compensates with elite production in multiple categories and has been racking up impressive stat lines this week, including a recent 50-point game, a 16-for-20 performance from the free-throw line, and a 15-assist game.
Ivica Zubac 22 PTS | 14 REB | 1 BLK | 47.8 FPS
Big Zu has seen an increase in usage over his last four games, allowing him to average nearly 24 points. Not only is he racking up points but he has also maintained his elite rebounding numbers, dropping his eight-straight double-double and his 42nd of the season. With a favorable schedule ahead, he should be able to maintain this level of performance.
Kawhi Leonard 17 PTS | 4 REB | 1 BLK | 28.8 FPS
Leonard has put up 20 or more points in four straight games, but he couldn’t keep it up today with his continuing struggles from three. However, he stepped up when it mattered most and delivered the biggest shot of the game. He’s yet to be at his most efficient since returning from injury but the game winner should spark momentum moving forward.
Derrick Jones Jr. 17 PTS | 3 REB | 1 STL | 23.6 FPS
Jones missed three games recently due to a groin injury but has maintained his usual production since returning. He’s recorded solid scoring numbers while also contributing 2 three-pointers, 3 rebounds, and a stock in two games.
Nic Batum 9 PTS | 3-3 3PT | 4 REB | 16.8 FPS
Batum has been making positive contributions in recent weeks despite inconsistent minutes. He’s been moved into the starting line-up lately and has emerged as a threat from deep, going 8-for-10 from three in his last two games. However, he is unlikely to sustain this level of production with the regular starters nearing their return.
Sacramento Kings Top Performers:
DeMar DeRozan 31 PTS | 7 REB | 10 AST | 56.4 FPS
DeRozan continues to thrive on offense, dropping his second 30-point game this month and maintaining a 20+ point streak in five outings. Though his three-point shooting remains a flaw, his elite free-throw production more than makes up for it. He’s also evolving into a triple-double threat lately with improved playmaking and rebounding, but his fantasy value is held back by minimal defensive contributions.
Jonas Valanciunas 9 PTS | 17 REB | 7 AST | 42.9 FPS
JV has had a rough time on offense today and notched his lowest point total since taking over the starting spot. However, he’s remained highly productive in rebounding, matching his highest output this season and has also been delivering strong playmaking numbers, benefiting from playing alongside strong scorers. He should continue to make a strong impact as long as Sabonis remains sidelined.
Zach LaVine 30 PTS | 7 REB | 2 AST | 38.4 FPS
LaVine has been on a scoring tear to start the month and has posted 30+ points in each of his last two games. His field goal percentage has been impressive, and he’s been sharp from three, hitting 7 in their previous game. But his hot streak will face a tough challenge with a demanding four-game stretch ahead.
Keegan Murray 15 PTS | 6 REB | 2 AST | 24.2 FPS
Murray has scored in double digits in eight of his last nine games, though he has surpassed 20 points only once. With DeRozan and LaVine carrying most of the offensive load, Murray will likely maintain this level of production. That said, he should still provide solid value with his efficiency but his impact could grow further if he finds consistency in his rebounding and defensive contributions.
Jake LaRavia 7 PTS | 3 REB | 3 STL | 22.6 FPS
LaRavia is expected to maintain a significant role off the bench as long as Domantas Sabonis remains sidelined and should continue to make a positive impact, particularly in scoring and rebounding.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
Kris Dunn 4 PTS | 2-7 FG | 4 AST
Dunn’s offensive game has been highly inconsistent, but he is making up for it with strong assists and solid defensive numbers.
