Bill Walton as a San Diego Clipper: 25 Points, 8 Rebounds, 7 Blocks vs. Portland (1982)

December 26, 1982 - After years of recurring foot injuries and a season lost due to self-imposed protest, 1977 NBA Finals MVP Bill Walton finally seemed to be turning a corner, returning to the San Diego Clippers lineup in 1982 following an injury-induced two year sabbatical. Per doctor's orders, Walton was on a one-game-a-week diet at the season's outset, making his Boxing Day showdown against his former team, the Portland Trail Blazers, just his ninth appearance of the season (out of 28 Clippers games total).

In front of a cable television audience, Walton turned in arguably his best performance of the 80's (to that point), finishing with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 blocks in a 112-105 win.

With Walton in and out of the lineup, the Clippers never found success over the course of his four-year stay (six if you include the two he missed due to injury). With his minutes and production angling downward, and with the Clippers' relocation to Los Angeles, Walton began eyeing a new role for a new team. In 1985, he signed with the Boston Celtics, earning the Sixth Man of the Year award as the Celtics steamrolled their way to an NBA championship.

Final note, for those curious: Walton was sporting goggles this season as a result of a fractured cheekbone sustained two to three weeks prior to the Dec. 26 showdown vs. Portland.

Credit for the original broadcast upload goes to Lonnie Anderson. For those interested in checking out an enigma of a San Diego Clippers team, featuring Hodges, Tom Chambers, Bill Walton, and Terry Cummings, the full game can be seen here:    • Portland Trail Blazers vs San Diego C...  

Box Score: https://www.basketball-reference.com/...