George, Clippers rap Blazers for fifth win in row
Paul George finished with 24 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, and Reggie Jackson added 23 points as the Los Angeles Clippers extended their winning streak to five games with a 117-109 victory Tuesday over the visiting Portland Trail Blazers.
Nicolas Batum had 22 points, making 6 of 8 from 3-point range, as the Clippers improved to 2-1 over the Trail Blazers this season. They have not lost since falling 111-92 at Portland on Oct. 29.
Damian Lillard scored 27 points for the Blazers, while Norman Powell added 23 as Portland remained winless on the road this season in five tries. The Blazers, who saw their two-game winning streak come to an end, were playing the opener of a fourgame road swing.
In Philadelphia, Giannis Antetokounmpo had 31 points and 16 rebounds to lift the Milwaukee Bucks past the Sixers, 118-109.
Grayson Allen added 25 points and Bobby Portis contributed 19 points and 10 rebounds for the Bucks, who snapped a two-game losing streak. The Bucks were missing Khris Middleton (COVID-19), Brook Lopez (back) and Donte DiVincenzo (ankle).
Donovan Mitchell scored 27 points to lead five Utah players in double digits en route to a 110-98 home win over struggling Atlanta in Salt Lake City.
Utah’s defense, led by reigning Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert, also had a big night, holding the Hawks to just 18 points in the fourth quarter and to 43.5 percent shooting.
The Jazz also held Kevin Huerter and Trae Young scoreless in the final quarter. (Reuters)