DENVER – The Denver Nuggets demonstrated a powerful offensive display in their decisive 120-101 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in Game 7 of their playoff series. This commanding performance on Saturday provided a sense of redemption for the Nuggets, who last year suffered the sting of a blown 20-point lead in the fourth quarter against Minnesota in Game 7 of their second-round series. The impressive win sends Denver to the next round with renewed confidence.
Interim coach David Adelman expressed satisfaction with the outcome but remained focused on the upcoming challenge, saying, “It feels good, but I also know we’re flying to O-K-C tomorrow.” As the No. 4 seed, the Nuggets now prepare to confront the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, who easily handled Memphis in a sweep and are well-rested after a week off. The much-anticipated series kicks off on Monday night.
A friend had recently reminded Adelman that the reward for overcoming the Clippers was a matchup with the formidable Thunder, a team that excelled this season with a 72-14 record. In response, Adelman acknowledged, “OK, that’s right. Appreciate that, bro.” Despite the daunting task ahead, the Nuggets’ spirits are high after a spectacular display against Los Angeles.
While Nikola Jokic, with his 16 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, remained a key player for Denver, he was ably supported by his teammates. Aaron Gordon led with 22 points, Christian Braun contributed 21, and both Jamal Murray and Russell Westbrook added 16 points each, with Michael Porter Jr. scoring 15. Jokic praised his team’s collective effort, noting, “In playoffs, we know that everybody needs to step up, offensively, defensively, whatever, energy-wise.”
Christian Braun impressed with his defense on James Harden, limiting him to just 7 points. Braun recognized the assistance he received from his teammates and coaches, saying, “Everybody behind me allowed me to guard him. But I think maybe the biggest part was Russ.”
On the opposing side, Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 22 points, while Ivica Zubac managed 10. Leonard acknowledged the Nuggets’ performance, stating, “We saw that throughout the first six games of this series, but you’ve got to give them credit.”
Reflecting on their turbulent season, which included management changes, the Nuggets were determined to move past memories of last year’s Game 7 disappointment. Despite a nail-biting Game 4 that saw them surrender a 22-point lead, Denver rallied and exploited the Clippers’ errors, sparking enthusiasm in both the team and their fans.
The Nuggets dominated the second and third quarters, bursting ahead with a 17-0 run that extinguished any hope the Clippers had after Leonard’s initial 3-pointer in the second half. Jokic commented on the team’s defensive success, noting, “The rebounding and defense was amazing.”
Jokic’s exit from the game due to foul troubles didn’t stall Denver’s momentum. Early in the fourth quarter, Russell Westbrook’s technical foul celebration mirrored the jubilant energy that enveloped the team.
Clippers fans, spiritedly flown in by team owner Steve Ballmer to support their team, were vocal in the first quarter. However, they could only watch in amazement as Denver decisively turned the tide.