Chris Paul hit a driving layup with five seconds remaining, lifting the Los Angeles Clippers to a 98-97 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers Friday night at Staples Center. The win was the fourth straight for the Clippers, who moved to within a game of the Los Angeles Lakers in the Pacific Division.
Paul had 20 points, 14 assists, four steals, and just one turnover on Friday. Paul is one of three Clippers to score exactly 20 points, including Randy Foye, who hit five three-pointers. Blake Griffin had 20 points and 13 rebounds for the Clippers, who shot 52% on the night.
J.J. Hickson welcomed himself to the starting lineup for Portland by scoring 29 points and dishing out 13 assists, making 13 of his 19 field goal attempts. Nicolas added 18 points and six rebounds for Portland, who shot 50% for the game.
The Clippers are 19-8 at home this season.
The Clippers conclude their homestand and their 20-game March on Saturday night against the Utah Jazz at Staples Center.
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