Overview
- Harden erupted for 27 points in the first quarter and reached 35 by halftime to seize control in Charlotte.
- The victory stopped the Clippers' skid at three losses, while the Hornets fell to a fifth straight defeat.
- Multiple outlets reported Harden set a new Clippers single-game mark with 55 points, surpassing the previous record of 52 held by Bob McAdoo and Charles Smith.
- Ivica Zubac added 18 points, nine rebounds and six assists, with Los Angeles exploiting the paint after Hornets center Ryan Kalkbrenner exited early with an ankle injury.
- Charlotte’s push faded after LaMelo Ball picked up a fourth foul; rookie Kon Knueppel scored 26 and Brandon Miller returned from a 13-game absence with 21.