NBA Game Summary - Washington at LA Clippers

Los Angeles, CA (Basketball News) - Elton Brand had 32 points, nine rebounds and three steals to lead the Los Angeles Clippers to a 116-101 victory over the Washington Wizards at the Staples Center.

Sam Cassell shot 10-of-15 from the floor for 26 points and added eight assists and Chris Kaman registered 21 points and 13 boards for the Clippers, who snapped a two-game losing streak. Los Angeles has the fifth playoff spot in the Western Conference with a half-game lead over Memphis.

Corey Maggette added 19 points in the win, the Clippers’ third consecutive over Washington.

"Our guys came out and played very well defensively against a team with a high-powered offense," said Los Angeles coach Mike Dunleavy. "Their (Washington) game is speed, and I thought we did a good job of keeping the tempo the way we wanted."

Antawn Jamison scored 31 points and Gilbert Arenas netted 17 points and dished out seven assists for the Wizards, who lost for just the third time in their last eight attempts. Despite the loss, Washington holds the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference with a half-game edge over the Indiana Pacers.

The Clippers jumped out to a 14-6 lead on Cassell’s running jumper, but Jamison’s four-point play brought the Wizards within 14-10. Moments later, Cassell’s three upped the lead to 23-13. The guard scored 11 of Los Angeles’ first 23 points. The Clippers led 32-20 after 12 minutes of play.

Washington opened the second quarter with a 15-7 run, including six straight points from Jamison to finish the surge, and pull within four, 39-35. However, the Clippers responded with a 15-6 run, capped by Brand’s layup, to make the score 54-41. Los Angeles took a 63-47 lead at the break.

The Clippers extended their lead to 76-52, courtesy of a 13-5 spurt to begin the half, highlighted by Quinton Ross’ three-point play. Los Angeles held a 94-71 advantage heading into the final frame.

The Wizards reeled off an 11-6 burst, showcased by Antonio Daniels three-point play, to narrow the gap to 100-82 with 8:16 to play.

Kaman’s free throws made the score 107-89 with almost three minutes remaining, but Washington went on a 10-2 run, including a pair of Billy Thomas threes, to cut the deficit to 109-99 with 1:34 on the clock. However, that was as close as the Wizards would get.