STOCKTON - Kevin Martin scored 27 of his 29 points in the first half Wednesday night, but it wasn't enough as the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Kings 116-112 in an exhibition game.
Through most of three quarters, the Kings displayed a more polished up-tempo game before an announced crowd of 4,028 at Spanos Center.
However, the Clippers entered the fourth quarter challenging. At one point, they hit four consecutive three-pointers while trading baskets with the Kings before regaining the lead. The Clippers outscored the Kings 36-24 in the quarter.
Eric Gordon hit two free throws with 1:42 seconds left to give the Clippers the lead. Though the Kings forced a shot-clock violation with 14.7 seconds remaining, they failed to capitalize.
The Kings led by as many as 15 points and shot 61.2 percent (41 of 67) from the field. Francisco Garcia scored 15 points.
The Kings led 64-51 in the first half, with Kenny Thomas contributing his first baskets since Dec. 14, 2007. Thomas finished with six points.
The Clippers were on the end of a tough back-to-back after defeating the Thunder in Oklahoma City 90-88 Tuesday. The original trip had the Clippers playing Seattle, but with the team relocating, the mileage was stretched. The Clippers flew into Sacramento and, like the Kings, took a bus to the arena.
The Clippers' Baron Davis did not make the trip due to because of flu-like symptoms.
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