Center Bam Adebayo led the way for the Heat, recording a double-double with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Norman Powell contributed 21 points in his return to Southern California, while Andrew Wiggins and Kel’el Ware added 17 and 16 points, respectively. Miami shot an efficient 54.2% from the field and connected on 12 of 25 three-pointers.
The Clippers were paced by James Harden, who scored 29 points, and Kawhi Leonard, who added 27. Ivica Zubac pulled down 18 rebounds to go with his nine points. Despite hitting 17 of 41 attempts from beyond the arc (41.5%), Los Angeles was hurt by 21 turnovers, which Miami converted into 37 points.
The Heat built a 13-point lead in the third quarter, but the Clippers battled back to tie the game at 105-105 with less than 10 minutes left, capped by a Chris Paul three-pointer. With under a minute to play, Adebayo’s free throws gave Miami a four-point cushion. Harden cut the deficit to one with a late three-pointer, but Leonard’s contested step-back attempt at the buzzer missed, sealing the Heat victory.
Looking ahead, Miami continues their road trip against the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday, while the Clippers will host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday.
For a detailed breakdown, visit the AP NBA Hub or see the official ESPN game recap.