In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Denver Nuggets defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 112-110 in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs on Saturday, April 19, 2025. The victory not only gives the Nuggets a 1-0 series lead but also showcases their resilience as they rallied from a 15-point deficit in the first half.
Nikola Jokić led the charge for the Nuggets with an impressive performance, recording 29 points, 12 assists, and 9 rebounds. His near triple-double was crucial in the Nuggets' comeback, especially as they struggled with their shooting in the first half, hitting just 30.8% from three-point range. Jokić’s ability to orchestrate the offense and find open teammates proved vital as the game progressed.
Support came from Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray, who both stepped up when it mattered most. The Nuggets' depth was on display, with Russell Westbrook also making significant contributions, including a clutch three-pointer to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. Westbrook’s defensive play was equally vital, as he forced a crucial turnover with just 9.6 seconds left, preventing the Clippers from having a chance to equalize.
The Clippers, who had been in control for much of the game, were led by the dynamic duo of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, who combined for 54 points. Despite their efforts, the Clippers couldn't hold on to their lead in the final moments. Ivica Zubac also had a strong showing, contributing 21 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
Entering the playoffs, both teams had high expectations. The Nuggets, with a regular-season record of 50-32, were looking to defend their title, while the Clippers, also finishing at 50-32, were on an eight-game winning streak, the longest active streak in the league at the time. The stakes were high as the two franchises faced off in the postseason for the first time since 2020, when the Nuggets famously came back from a 3-1 deficit to win a thrilling seven-game series.
In terms of injuries, the Nuggets were without rookie DaRon Holmes, who is sidelined for the season due to an Achilles injury. However, they had a clean bill of health for their key players, including Jokić and Murray. The Clippers, on the other hand, had no players listed on their injury report, marking a significant advantage as they entered the series.
The matchup was highly anticipated, with both teams having split their four regular-season meetings, two games apiece. This history added an extra layer of intensity to the game, as both teams aimed to establish dominance early in the series.
Jokić’s performance against the Clippers has been notable in previous encounters as well. In three games against them during the regular season, he averaged 28.3 points and 10 rebounds, shooting an impressive 54% from the field. His ability to find scoring opportunities and create plays for his teammates has made him a pivotal figure in the Nuggets' lineup.
As the game unfolded, the Clippers’ defense, known for its toughness and efficiency, was tested. They ranked third in points allowed per possession and boasted a strong defensive rebounding rate. However, the Nuggets' aggressive play down the stretch proved to be the difference-maker.
With the series now underway, the anticipation for Game 2 is palpable. The Nuggets will look to build on their momentum, while the Clippers aim to adjust and come back stronger. Game 2 is scheduled for Monday, April 21, 2025, at 10 p.m. ET, and will be broadcast on TNT.
This series promises to be a thrilling battle, with both teams showcasing their strengths and strategies. As the Nuggets and Clippers prepare for the next game, fans are left wondering how each team will adapt and who will emerge victorious in this highly competitive playoff matchup.
