Harden scores 36 as the Clippers hold off the Wizards for their 6th straight win

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Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1) dribbles against Washington Wizards forward Marvin Bagley III (35) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden, center, goes to the basket against Washington Wizards forward Justin Champagnie, left, and center Alex Sarr (20) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) — Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1) dribbles against Washington Wizards forward Marvin Bagley III (35) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

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5:50 PM on Monday, January 19

By NOAH TRISTER

WASHINGTON (AP) — James Harden scored 36 points, and when he finally missed a couple big free throws in the final seconds, the ball came right back to him as the Los Angeles Clippers edged the Washington Wizards 110-106 on Monday for their sixth straight victory.

Harden made two free throws with 36.9 seconds left to give the Clippers a 108-106 lead, and after the teams traded scoreless possessions, Kyshawn George missed a 3-pointer for Washington. Harden was fouled with 5.9 seconds left. At that point, he was 16 for 16 from the line, but he missed both free throws.

The Wizards couldn't secure the rebound, and the ball bounced back to Harden, who was fouled again. This time he made both shots to seal the win.

Washington has lost seven straight.

Although the two teams have been headed in opposite directions of late, this game was close basically the whole way. Harden's layup put the Clippers up by three, but Khris Middleton was fouled while shooting a 3 with 57.6 seconds left, and he made all three free throws to tie it at 106.

The Clippers were without the injured Kawhi Leonard for a second straight game. Trae Young (knee, quad) still hasn’t played since being traded to Washington from Atlanta.

Alex Sarr led the Wizards with 28 points. George had 18 points, six assists and six rebounds, but he missed a trio of key shots in the last couple minutes for Washington.

The Clippers won despite shooting 5 of 28 from beyond the arc. They were 33 of 38 on free throws and outscored the Wizards 60-38 in the paint.

Up next

Clippers: At Chicago on Tuesday night.

Wizards: Host Denver on Thursday night.

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