Player grades: Thunder vs. Clippers - Paul George shines in 128-117 loss

Paul George's impressive one-handed jam and monster fourth quarter led the LA Clippers to a 128-117 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Paul George stripped the ball from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and then executed an impressive reversed one-handed jam. The All-Star forward then hit the dagger after a monster fourth quarter, sealing the LA Clippers' 128-117 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The game was a high-scoring affair from the start, with the Clippers leading 35-30 at the end of the first quarter. By halftime, the lead had narrowed to 65-61 in a competitive first half. The Clippers extended their lead in the third quarter with a 34-point frame, entering the final quarter with a 99-89 lead. However, the Thunder mounted a 17-9 run at the start of the fourth quarter, making it a two-point contest with under seven minutes left. Despite the Thunder's efforts, the Clippers finished strong with a 14-2 run to secure the win.

The Thunder showcased elite offensive production, shooting 51% from the field, 47.1% from 3, and 85% from the free-throw line. Jalen Williams led the team in scoring for the second consecutive night, contributing 25 points and seven assists. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort each added 19 points to the Thunder's tally.

On the other hand, the red-hot Clippers shot 54% from the field and 46.5% from 3, with five players scoring double-digit points. Paul George was the standout player, scoring a season-high 38 points, including 18 in the final frame.

The game was a showcase for both teams, with the Thunder demonstrating their offensive prowess and the Clippers displaying their ability to finish strong. The Thunder's youth and inexperience were evident in the final minutes, but it was a solid road showing for the team.

In terms of player performance, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a tough night, scoring 19 points on 6-of-16 shooting. Jalen Williams was a standout player, contributing 25 points and seven assists. Lu Dort also had a strong performance, scoring 19 points and contributing on the defensive end as well. Isaiah Joe bounced back from a tough outing against the Lakers, scoring 15 points and making a significant impact off the bench.

Overall, the game lived up to its billing as a heavyweight bout between two top teams in the league, and both teams showed their strengths and areas for improvement. The Thunder will need to regroup and aim to snap their two-game skid as they continue their road trip.

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