The Clippers have faced consistent challenges against the Pelicans in recent seasons, and the trend appeared set to continue as the Pelicans took an early commanding 33-12 lead. Brandon Ingram's stellar offensive performance, amassing 16 points in the opening quarter, kept the Clippers struggling to score. The tide turned when the Clippers' bench, led by Norman Powell, injected much-needed energy and intensity into the game. Despite a lack of consistent offensive flow, Powell (15 points) and Paul George (17 points) helped the Clippers narrow the deficit to a one-point margin at halftime.
Kawhi Leonard attributed the comeback to the Clippers' defensive efforts. While the third quarter suggested a potential resolution to the Pelicans problem, the fourth quarter saw the Pelicans dominate, culminating in a 10-0 run that re-established a double-digit lead, ultimately securing the victory.