LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Utah Jazz 75-88, on Sunday, October 30.
The win came during the first home game of the season for the Clippers, who played in front of a raucous Staples Center crowd. Guard Austin Rivers led Los Angeles while coming off of the bench, scoring 19 points in 28 minutes and playing staunch defense on Utah’s veteran back court of Joe Johnson and Grant Hill.
After trailing 22-19 in the opening period, the Clippers took a permanent lead in the second quarter with a 22-4 run. Rivers contributed newfound team chemistry as the main factor in the win.
“Last year we were trying to figure out each other and not get in each other’s way,” said Rivers. “Now the group has one goal, everyone is focused on winning.”
Hill scored 18 points for Utah, while third year point guard Dante Exum chipped in 10 points. The Jazz are now 1-2 on the season after the loss.
Blake Griffin totaled 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Clippers, and Chris Paul scored 9 points while dishing out 9 assists. Reigning Sixth Man of the Year Award winner Jamal Crawford managed 12 points off of the bench.
Los Angeles is now 2-0 ahead of Monday’s Halloween match up against the Phoenix Suns.
