The path of this playoffs seemed to be written from the beginning: take everything to the last second. The Clippers and the Nuggets, two teams capable of showing brilliant versions and also disappearing for stretches, confirmed what already seemed inevitable: that the pass to the next round will be decided in a seventh game. James Harden, criticized in the previous game for his low impact, responded with his best version in weeks. He was key for Los Angeles to defeat Denver 111-105 and stretch the series to the limit.
Harden Changes the Face of the Clippers
After a game where his presence was discreet, James Harden came out determined to change the story. He scored 28 points, pulled down 6 rebounds and dished out 8 assists, being the offensive engine that the Clippers needed. At 35 years old, the point guard showed that he still has gas for big games. In the second quarter, he was practically unstoppable and sustained the team in key moments.
The difference from the previous game was evident: Harden looked for the hoop, made quick decisions and kept his cool when Denver got close. His influence went beyond the numbers, as he dictated the pace and generated space for his teammates to find comfortable shots. Beyond the stats, his aggressive attitude infected the team in moments of increased pressure.
He was not the only one who shined. Kawhi Leonard was also decisive with 27 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Without needing to raise his voice, the small forward once again proved to be a silent but effective leader. His consistency was vital to maintain the lead during the second half, when the game seemed like it could slip away.
Defense Was the Real Key
While the spotlight usually goes to the star scorers, the story of this win was written on the other side of the court. Ivica Zubac and Nicolas Batum combined to stop Nikola Jokic like few have in recent years. The Serbian center, a three-time league MVP, had a dominant start with 20 points in the first half, but could barely score 5 in the last two quarters.
It was to the credit of the coaching staff, who adjusted the defense to limit Jokic's space. Zubac made him physically uncomfortable, while Batum helped with coverages and blocked passing lanes. In addition, every time Jokic received, quick assists appeared to force him to make hasty decisions. In total, he shot just 2 of 9 in the second half, an unusual record for a player of his level.
Coach Tyronn Lue highlighted the commitment of his players and how they maintained tactical discipline. "I told them this was about playing as a team and doing what it took to win. They all got the message," he commented after the game. That collective commitment, especially on defense, allowed the Clippers to build a lead that, while threatened, they never completely lost.
Nuggets Fail at Decisive Moment
Denver had a chance to close out the series in Los Angeles and avoid an uncomfortable Game 7 at home. They failed to do so. The team showed signs of inconsistency and stumbled again in a familiar scenario: letting a 3-2 lead slip away. History repeats itself, as it did in the previous playoffs against Minnesota.
Jamal Murray had a promising start, but disappeared at times. He finished with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists, although most of his production was in the first quarter. After that, he was overpowered by the opposing defense and couldn't find space. Michael Porter Jr. was also a non-factor, and the team felt the lack of secondary contributions in moments of tension.
In addition, the closing decisions left doubts. Denver got within 107-101 with three minutes left, but a missed layup by Russell Westbrook, followed by a Powell triple, buried their hopes. That sequence, from a possible -4 to the final +9 for the Clippers, marked the end of the comeback attempt. Although they didn't give up, the Nuggets failed to capitalize on their moments.
Assistant coach David Adelman, who remains at the helm while Michael Malone recovers, expressed frustration with the lack of fouls called on Jokic. "It's unbelievable that he only shot two free throws with that much contact," he said. Beyond the refereeing, Denver will have to look inward if it wants to avoid another home setback.
On this Labor Day Holiday, we hope the Genie De La Lampara has correctly understood your wishes.
🗓️ 🧞♂️ pic.twitter.com/rmmVT13IX4- Betcris (@Betcris) May 2, 2025
It's All Set in Denver
The series will be settled in a seventh game in the Mile High City. The Ball Arena will witness an all-or-nothing game between two teams that have not been able to make a clear difference. Each game has been a seesaw of emotions, with performances that change drastically from one day to the next. There is no clear favorite, and that is what makes this tie so unpredictable.
For the Clippers, it will be a chance for revenge. In 2020, they were eliminated by these same Nuggets in a Game 7 inside the Florida bubble. Several of the key players are still around, and the memory is fresh. This time, they come in with experience and a new air. Harden is fired up, Leonard is healthy, and the defense seems to have found answers.
On Denver's side, doubts are present. Although they play at home and have one of the best players in the world, their irregularity is still a concern. It is not the first time they have reached this point, but it is one where the margin for error is minimal. The team that loses will not only be eliminated, but will face a summer full of questions.
This is the scenario: a seventh game with everything at stake. The winner will face the rested Oklahoma City Thunder, who have been waiting for days for an opponent. The loser will say goodbye with a bitter taste. And in the midst of it all, a certainty: when the series seemed unpredictable, there was only one possible destiny left. All or nothing.
