It was an even Christmas day match between the two top teams from Los Angeles. After the Clippers got a tight lead on just two points after the first quarter, it was the Lakers who dominated second and the beginning of the third. At its most successful, the Lakers, led by Kyle Kuzma who with 25 points became the best point picker, managed to have the lead with 15 points.
But then it turned, and Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers woke up a lot. Kawhi accounted for 35 points when the Clippers not only caught up with the Lakers, but also passed with just over three minutes remaining when Lou Williams put two free throws to 105-103. And it was a lead they wouldn't let go, but it was probably nervous for Clippers fans when LeBron, at sub-109-106 with only a few seconds left, would try on a three-pointer.
But then Patrick Beverly stepped forward. Despite being 21 inches shorter than the legend, he managed to reach the ball and knock it off for LeBron, who would have no more chance. Instead, the Lakers drew a foul that allowed Paul George to set the final score 111-106 with two free throws.