De’Aarоn Fоx scоred 33 pоints, Dоmantas Sabоnis achieved his 20th triple-dоuble, leading the NBA, as the Sacramentо Kings beat the Clippers 123-107 оn Sunday night. This setback marked the secоnd cоnsecutive defeat fоr Lоs Angeles, the first time since late December.

Norman Powell scored 21 points for the Clippers in his season debut as a starter, filling in for Paul George who was out due to a painful left knee. Kawhi Leonard scored 20 points, while James Harden also contributed 20 points and made all 10 of his free throws, in addition to providing eight assists. Los Angeles had not seen consecutive losses since December 21 and 23.

After the All-Star break, the Clippers, who were in third place, played two consecutive games on the road. They came back to their home ground for the first time with a record of 20-6, but ended up losing to a team ranked lower than them in the Western Conference.

“I sense that we are in competition, but we are slightly lagging behind.” “Hopefully we establish a rhythm,” Leonard stated. “We are currently experiencing a slight decline, but we have the opportunity to improve.”

Harrison Barnes contributed 22 points for the Kings, who secured their third consecutive victory. Sabonis recorded 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 12 assists, placing him among six players in NBA history who have achieved 20 or more triple-doubles in a single season.

Fox commented that people tend to grow desensitised to Sabonis’ actions. “Maintaining an average close to a triple-double is a challenging accomplishment.”

The Clippers reduced their shortfall to five points at the beginning of the fourth quarter before the Kings extended their lead to 10 points. After closing the gap to 101-96 with Terance Mann’s three-point play, the Clippers quickly fell behind by 10 points once more.

Clippers coach Tyronn Lue remarked that it is challenging to play from behind. One error, one incorrect move, and the advantage is regained. You cannot advance that deeply, particularly when facing a strong squad.

Barnes and Davion Mitchell made back-to-back 3-pointers, with Barnes scoring another basket, extending the Kings’ advantage to 116-100.

Fox stated that they did not allow 30 points in a quarter. “By guarding in that manner, you increase your chances of success every night.”

The Kings scored 10 consecutive points at the beginning of the third quarter, and then Barnes’ 3-pointer increased their lead to 18 points.

Following a three-minute scoreless period, the Clippers outscored the Kings 29-21 for the remainder of the game, finishing the third quarter down 89-80.