Chris Paul had another magnificent outing Saturday night, scoring 33 points to lead the Los Angeles Clippers over the Los Angeles Lakers 102-94 at Staples Center in the first regular season meeting between the two Pacific Division foes. However, the victory was dampened somewhat by Paul leaving the game with four minutes remaining with a strained left hamstring. He did not return.
Paul had six assists, four rebounds, and three steals to go with his season-high point total, abusing Derek Fisher and rookie Darius Morris. The Clippers have won five straight home games and are 21-6 in their last 27 home games, dating back to last season.
The Clippers, who have struggled on the boards early this season, outrebounded the lengthy Lakers 50-42 on the night, and grabbed 17 rebounds. Blake Griffin led the way with 14 rebounds to go with his 22 points, while DeAndre Jordan and Reggie Evans chipped in with a combined 18 boards in 45 minutes on the night.
Chauncey Billups hit four three-pointers en route to 19 points for the Clippers, who shot 41.2% on the night. The Clippers host New Jersey on Monday afternoon at Staples Center.
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