James Harden’s elite play fueling Clippers’ playoff push

The Los Angeles Clippers are hitting their stride at the perfect time, winning eight of their last nine games to climb the Western Conference standings. 

Now just one game behind the Golden State Warriors, who currently hold the sixth seed and a guaranteed playoff berth, the Clippers are making a serious postseason push.  

Los Angeles extended its winning streak to five on Friday night with a commanding 128-108 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, fueled by another standout performance from James Harden. 

The 35-year-old guard delivered 30 points, nine assists and four rebounds, shooting 8-of-14 from the field while draining five three-pointers. He also went 9-of-10 from the free-throw line and contributed two steals and two blocks in a well-rounded outing.  

Harden had already rediscovered his vintage form prior to Friday's win. He came into the matchup averaging 29.1 points, 6.3 rebounds and 9.3 assists across his last eight games, leading the league in total assists and three-pointers made during that stretch while ranking second in total points scored. 

His playmaking and shot-making have been instrumental in keeping the Clippers in contention as the regular season winds down.