On January 3, 2021, Paul George dropped 39 points, hitting seven 3-pointers, to lead the LA Clippers to a 112-107 victory over the Phoenix Suns in Phoenix, as noted in the sports card above.
His clutch performance, including a key assist to Nicolas Batum for a game-sealing 3-pointer with 11.9 seconds left, secured the win despite a late Suns rally.
Heated Exchange with Suns
Tensions flared in the fourth quarter when George and Devin Booker received double technical fouls at 7:20 remaining. George, speaking post-game, said he was discussing a call with a referee when Chris Paul intervened, escalating the situation. “I heard a lot of chirping about my bubble performance,” George noted, referencing his struggles in the 2020 Orlando playoffs. He dismissed the talk, stating, “Last year was last year. I’m in a new mindset.”
Overcoming Bubble Criticism
George’s 2020 playoff struggles, including a 4-for-16 Game 7 against Denver, drew heavy criticism, amplified by prior social media spats with Portland’s Damian Lillard. He admitted using the noise as motivation, saying, “I came into this year focused.” His 32 points entering the fourth, with 6-of-9 three-point shooting, showcased his resurgence, making him the third NBA player with 30+ threes in his team’s first seven games.
Suns’ Comeback Falls Short
The Suns, trailing 60-29, cut the deficit to 96-94 by 9:10 in the fourth, led by Booker’s 12 points in the final quarter. However, their four-game winning streak was snapped, with Booker downplaying the altercation as “nothing.” Kawhi Leonard struggled, shooting 4-for-21, but George’s dominance ensured the Clippers prevailed.
George’s Mindset
George emphasized his focus on playing without engaging in trash talk. “I don’t talk; I play my game,” he said. “As long as we win, that’s what matters.” His performance against the Suns highlighted his leadership for a Clippers team navigating challenges, including a reported staff quarantine after a New Year’s Eve event.
