Paul George leaves Clippers’ win vs. Kings with sore groin

LOS ANGELES — LA Clippers star Paul George sat out the second half of Tuesday night’s 119-99 win over the Sacramento Kings because of a sore left groin.

George played 16 minutes in the first half and finished with nine points and six rebounds before he was declared out for the game shortly after halftime.

Clippers coach Ty Lue said after the game that there was no update on George. However, when asked whether George could have come back in and played if needed, Lue answered, “Yes.”

At one point in the first half, George dove for a loose ball and remained down for a bit before getting up. Lue said he was worried seeing his star dive with both arms stretched out but that he appreciated the hustle.

Leading 70-48 at the half, the Clippers started Norman Powell in George’s place at the beginning of the third quarter.

After injuries plagued their stars in recent years, the Clippers have enjoyed their healthiest start to a season in the Kawhi Leonard and George era.

Leonard and George have played in all 23 games this season. The 23 contests are the longest stretch of consecutive games the two have played together since joining the team in 2019-20.

Tuesday’s game against Sacramento was the second night of a back-to-back, and George and Leonard have played in all four of those contests this season.

George’s injury comes just as the Clippers are playing their best basketball since trading for James Harden. Leonard scored 31 points in three quarters to help the Clippers (13-10) win their fifth straight. L.A. has won 10 of its past 13 games.

George entered the game averaging 23.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.2 assists this season. The Clippers next face the Golden State Warriors at home on Thursday before hosting the New York Knicks on Saturday.