The Golden State Warriors defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 126-121 in a high-stakes NBA play-in game on Wednesday, securing their spot in the next round. Stephen Curry led the charge with 35 points, including seven three-pointers, while Draymond Green contributed seven points, six rebounds, nine assists, and four steals. The Warriors will now face the Phoenix Suns on Friday for a chance to advance to the playoffs.
The Clippers, who had rebounded from a poor start to secure a play-in berth, saw their season end with the loss. Kawhi Leonard and Darius Garland each scored 21 points for Los Angeles, but the team couldn't hold off Golden State's late rally. The Warriors overcame a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter, with Kristaps Porziņģis and Brandin Podziemski also contributing 20 and 17 points, respectively.
In the aftermath, Draymond Green addressed criticism of his performance, stating that he plays for himself rather than his detractors. 'There will never be a person who I want to prove to more than myself,' he said. Green, 36, emphasized his readiness for big moments and dismissed concerns about his decline.
The Clippers' loss also impacted the Oklahoma City Thunder, who now stand to gain a higher draft pick due to the outcome. The Thunder hold the No. 12 pick, with a chance to move up to No. 4 in the draft lottery. If the Warriors defeat the Suns, Oklahoma City's pick improves to No. 11 with a 9.4% chance of moving higher.