James Harden Dazzles NBA Fans as Clippers Win G4 vs. Luka, Mavs Despite Kawhi Injury

The Los Angeles Clippers were on the verge of a historic collapse in Sunday’s Game 4 against the Dallas Mavericks, but former NBA MVP James Harden came alive in the fourth quarter to help avoid an embarrassing loss.

Harden scored 15 of his 33 points in the final period to lead the Clippers to a 116-111 victory and tie the first-round series 2-2. Los Angeles held a 31-point lead in the first half before Dallas mounted a furious comeback that saw the Mavs take a lead in the fourth quarter, but Harden helped the Clippers hold on.

In addition to Harden’s big game, Paul George scored 33 points, although he did most of his damage in the first half. Los Angeles was without star forward Kawhi Leonard, who missed his second game of the series with right knee inflammation.

The Mavs were led by a spirited performance by Kyrie Irving, who poured in a game-high 40 points. Luka Doncic added 29 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, but he shot 10-of-24 from the field and 1-of-9 from beyond the arc. The 31-point comeback would’ve tied for the largest blown lead in playoff history, but Harden and George helped the Clippers dodge a massive disappointment.

Fans on social media were impressed with Harden’s poise down the stretch as he turned back the clock with some vintage play to lead Los Angeles to victory:

At 34 years old, Harden isn’t the offensive dynamo he once was, but he showed that he is still capable of delivering when it matters most. He is motivated to earn his first NBA title, and he will need more performances like this if he hopes to achieve his goal.

Harden and the Clippers will head back home with momentum on their side for Wednesday’s Game 5.