James Harden reaches a major career milestone with the Clippers’ big win over Denver

INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The Los Angeles Clippers took on the Denver Nuggets in their first home game in nine days after returning from a rollercoaster ride on the East Coast.

The Clippers navigated both smooth and rough waters, posting a stunning loss in Boston, dominant games against the Philadelphia 76ers and Washington Wizards, and a heartbreaking loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue announced before the game that Norman Powell would return to the lineup after missing the last six games with a hamstring injury. While Powell was back, the Clippers remained shorthanded. Not only does Kawhi Leonard’s return date remain a mystery, the Clippers were also without Kevin Porter Jr., who has played a key role in the team’s second unit.

Also returning was Aaron Gordon from Denver.

The Clippers coaching staff decided to give Jordan Miller a chance at the backup point guard position.

At halftime the two teams were tied at 59.

In the first half, James Harden made history, becoming only the second player in league history to make 3,000 three-pointers.

Not only did Harden reach a milestone in his career, he also put in a phenomenal performance. Harden finished the game with 39 points, 11 assists and 9 rebounds.

Miller scored 8 points and 5 rebounds in 15 minutes. In the second half, Terance Mann had arguably his best game of the season, finishing with 15 points, 3 rebounds and one assist in 25 minutes played.

Amir Coffey remains a solid role player for the Clippers. He did not return in the second half of the game after a collision with one of the Nuggets. However, Ty Lue confirmed after the game that he was fine.

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Jokić did the heavy lifting for the Nuggets, and yet seven players finished in double figures.

Ultimately, the Clippers took care of business and won their eighth straight home game with a 126-122 victory over Denver.

The Clippers next face the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night.