Harden erupts for 55, Clippers rout Hornets 131-116

Title James Harden's Record-Breaking 55-Point Performance Propels Clippers to Victory Over Hornets

The Los Angeles Clippers secured a convincing 131-116 win over the Charlotte Hornets, thanks in large part to James Harden's franchise-record 55 points. This impressive outing came just hours after Chris Paul hinted at retirement in a video posted on social media.

Ivica Zubac played a key supporting role for the Clippers, contributing 18 points, nine rebounds, and six assists as the team snapped its three-game losing streak. Rookie Kon Knueppel led the Hornets with 26 points, while Brandon Miller returned from a 13-game absence due to a shoulder injury, finishing with 21 points.

Harden's dominant performance began in the first quarter, where he scored an astonishing 27 points on five three-pointers, helping the Clippers build a 14-point lead. The Hornets' early momentum was quickly extinguished as Harden continued his scoring spree. Charlotte pulled within 74-72 in the third quarter, but the tide shifted when LaMelo Ball exited the game with his fourth foul.

With Ryan Kalkbrenner sidelined due to an ankle injury, the Clippers capitalized on Zubac's size advantage over Moussa Diabate, resulting in back-to-back dunks. Harden then delivered a signature moment, sinking his eighth three-pointer while drawing a foul on Diabate for a 4-point play.

Harden's 55-point performance was the 11th-highest scoring game of his career, with his career high being 61 points. The Clippers' previous single-game scoring record was 52 points, achieved by Charles Smith and Bob McAdoo.

In addition to his impressive scoring, Chris Paul demonstrated his mastery of finding the open man in the second half, setting up LA teammate Brook Lopez for three open three-pointers.

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