Fri Jan 02 05:40:00 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Utah Jazz 118-101, extending their winning streak to six games. Kawhi Leonard led the charge with 45 points, dominating the fourth quarter and matching the Jazz’s entire team output in the period. James Harden contributed 20 points. While the Clippers initially built a significant lead, the Jazz rallied despite being shorthanded, but couldn’t maintain the momentum. Kyle Anderson and Brice Sensabaugh led Utah’s scoring with 22 and 20 points, respectively.

News Article:

Leonard’s 45 Points Propel Clippers to Sixth Straight Win Over Jazz

INGLEWOOD, CA – Kawhi Leonard delivered a dominant performance, scoring 45 points, as the Los Angeles Clippers overcame a blown 21-point lead to defeat the Utah Jazz 118-101 on Thursday night. The victory marked the Clippers’ sixth consecutive win, their longest streak of the season.

Leonard was a force to be reckoned with, particularly in the fourth quarter where he single-handedly matched the Jazz’s total points with 20, even with blood on his nose from an apparent scratch. His scoring barrage, including four of seven consecutive Clippers’ 3-pointers, put the game out of reach for Utah. James Harden added 20 points for Los Angeles, while Nicolas Batum chipped in with 14.

The Jazz, playing without three starters (Keyonte George, Lauri Markkanen, and Jusuf Nurkic), fought back valiantly after a slow start. Reserve Kyle Anderson led Utah with 22 points, his first 20-point game in nearly three years, and Brice Sensabaugh contributed 20 of his own.

Despite the strong performances from Anderson and Sensabaugh, the Jazz couldn’t sustain their rally. After falling behind early, Utah outscored the Clippers in the second quarter and briefly took the lead in the third. The Clippers, however, regained control and closed out the game strong.

The Jazz will look to bounce back on Saturday when they visit the Golden State Warriors. The Clippers will host the Boston Celtics on Saturday.

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