Clippers dominate Kings 138-109

The Los Angeles Clippers jumped out early and never looked back, cruising past the Sacramento Kings 138–109 on Sunday night to strengthen their playoff positioning.

Kawhi Leonard led the way with 26 points, scoring 13 in the opening quarter as the Clippers built a quick double-digit lead and controlled the game from the outset. John Collins added 25 points, while Darius Garland and Kobe Sanders each chipped in 17 in a balanced offensive effort.

Los Angeles snapped a two-game skid and moved into a tie for eighth place in the Western Conference, keeping itself in position for the play-in tournament with multiple chances to secure a postseason berth.

Sacramento, meanwhile, couldn’t keep pace as its difficult season continued. Devin Carter scored 21 points and Nique Clifford added 18, while Maxime Raynaud recorded his 18th double-double of the season with 11 points and 16 rebounds — leading all rookies in that category.

A milestone moment came for DeMar DeRozan, who scored nine points in the first half to reach 26,711 career points, passing Oscar Robertson for 16th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. DeRozan did not return in the second half.

The Clippers’ fast start set the tone, and they steadily extended their lead throughout the night against a Kings team nearing the end of a disappointing campaign.

Up next: Los Angeles returns home to face Dallas, while Sacramento hits the road to take on Golden State.