Harden's 31 points shone throughout the game as the Clippers defeated the Raptors 121-117 in overtime.

January 18th - The Clippers defeated the Raptors 121-117. Harden scored 31 points, 2 rebounds, and 10 assists, stepping up to stabilize the team's morale multiple times in crucial moments.

At the start of the game, the Raptors took an early double-digit lead thanks to Sheldon's repeated drives to the basket and three-pointers. The Clippers, orchestrated by Harden, gradually found their rhythm, but still trailed 24-32 at the end of the first quarter . In the second quarter, the Raptors extended their lead to 12 points. The Clippers then responded with consecutive scores from Miller and Zubac, helping them close the gap. At halftime, the Raptors maintained their lead at 61-52 .

After switching sides, the Raptors, led by Barnes and Ingram, widened the gap again. At the end of the third quarter, the Raptors held an 89-78 lead. In the final quarter, the Clippers intensified their offense and defense, with Harden hitting consecutive key shots and dishing out assists, leading the team to quickly tie the score and briefly take the lead. The score was tied at 109 at the end .

In overtime, the Clippers' interior players repeatedly secured rebounds, gradually gaining the upper hand. Although the Raptors fought back tenaciously, they were unable to complete the comeback. Ultimately, the Clippers secured a 121-117 victory.

Clippers player statistics

Harden 31 points , 2 rebounds , 10 assists; Miller 19 points , 2 rebounds , 6 assists ; Zubac 16 points , 14 rebounds, 2 assists; Christie 16 points , 5 rebounds, 1 assist; Dunn 15 points , 4 rebounds , 4 assists; Sanders 13 points , 3 rebounds; Niederhauser 5 points, 2 rebounds; Lopez 3 points , 1 rebound; Washington 3 points , 1 rebound , 2 assists; Brown 1 rebound.

Raptors player statistics

Barnes 24 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists; Ingram 19 points , 6 rebounds , 2 assists; Abaji 15 points , 3 rebounds, 1 assist; Shedd 15 points , 4 rebounds, 13 assists; Dick 15 points , 7 rebounds , 1 assist; Mamukirashvili 13 points, 2 rebounds , 1 assist; Boyles 11 points, 4 rebounds , 3 assists; Martin 5 points , 1 assist; Lawson 3 rebounds , 2 assists.