INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The Los Angeles Clippers have forced a decisive Game 7 in their first-round NBA playoff series against the Denver Nuggets, overcoming a late-game challenge to secure a 111-105 victory at the Intuit Dome on Thursday, May 1, 2025. This win sets the stage for a thrilling showdown on Saturday, May 3, at Ball Arena in Denver, as both teams vie for a spot in the next round.
In a game marked by intensity and urgency, the Clippers showcased their resilience after dropping two consecutive games. Head coach Tyronn Lue, aware of the stakes, made an effort to connect with his players on their off day, ensuring they were mentally prepared for the battle ahead. “I took a lot of temperatures,” Lue said. “It’s about being a team and whatever it takes to win. Those guys totally understood it.”
Leading the charge for the Clippers was James Harden, who bounced back from a lackluster Game 5 performance to score 28 points along with eight assists. Harden was aggressive throughout the game, taking advantage of the high-pressure situation. “It was win or go home, so there were opportunities to be aggressive, and I took them,” Harden remarked after the game. His contribution was crucial, especially in the second half, where the Clippers turned the tide against the Nuggets.
Kawhi Leonard also played a pivotal role, adding 27 points and ten rebounds to the Clippers' effort. His assertive play was complemented by Norman Powell, who chipped in 24 points, including a critical three-pointer with just 1:47 left on the clock, helping to seal the victory. The Clippers’ defense was equally impressive, turning 14 Denver turnovers into 23 points, a statistic that proved vital in the tightly contested matchup.
On the other side, Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 21 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. Despite his strong performance, the Nuggets struggled to maintain their momentum, particularly in the second half. Murray acknowledged the Clippers’ tenacity, stating, “They played with a lot more desperation because their backs were against the wall, and you’ve got to give them credit.”
Nikola Jokic, the three-time MVP, had a challenging night, scoring 20 of his 25 points in the first half but failing to find his rhythm in the second. The Clippers’ defense, particularly from Ivica Zubac and Nicolas Batum, effectively limited Jokic's impact, holding him scoreless for an extended stretch. Lue’s strategy to contain Jokic paid off, as the Nuggets found themselves in a scoring drought during critical moments of the game.
As the game progressed, the Clippers built a 15-point lead with less than six minutes remaining, seemingly in control. However, the Nuggets fought back, embarking on an 11-2 run that narrowed the margin to 107-101. Russell Westbrook had a chance to cut the lead further but missed a crucial layup under pressure, a moment that could have shifted the game’s momentum. Despite these struggles, the Clippers held firm, relying on their defense to withstand the Nuggets' late push.
Looking ahead, Game 7 promises to be an electrifying encounter, with both teams having a lot to prove. The Nuggets, who have not won a Game 7 since 2020, will be eager to avoid repeating past mistakes, especially after losing a potential series-clinching game for the fourth time in five tries since their championship run in 2023. Interim coach David Adelman referenced a previous playoff series loss, emphasizing the need for his team to learn from past experiences. “We’re gonna look back at that, use it as a lesson learned,” he stated, focusing on the present challenge.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as the Clippers and Nuggets prepare for their final showdown. Fans can expect a fierce battle as both teams aim to advance in the playoffs. With the series tied at 3-3, the upcoming Game 7 will not only determine who moves on but will also test the mettle of both squads as they navigate the pressures of postseason basketball.
The tip-off for Game 7 is scheduled for 10:00 pm ET, and fans can catch all the action live on TNT, NBA League Pass, and Fubo TV. As the anticipation builds, both teams are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to their first-round playoff series.
