Clippers Push Series to Decisive Game 7 Against Nuggets

Following a decisive defeat in Game 5, the Clippers bounced back with a strong performance in Game 6 with a 111-105 win against the Nuggets on Thursday at the Intuit Dome, setting up a winner take all game on Saturday in Denver.

The Clippers' fundamental strategy for success ended up being their typical plan, with some added assistance from Nicolas Batum. Kawhi Leonard and James Harden dominated the offensive usage effectively, Norman Powell stepped up when an alternative approach was needed, and Ivica Zubac managed the paint on both ends of the court.

James Harden scored 28 points and contributed eight assists in an impressive comeback performance, Kawhi Leonard added 27 points, but it was the effort and defensive impact of Nicolas Batum and Ivica Zubac that disrupted the Nuggets, preventing them from executing in the final moments of regulation.

Norman Powell scored 24 points for the Clippers, helping them recover from consecutive losses with a strong performance at the new Intuit Dome. Los Angeles dominated in the second half with aggressive defense on Nikola Jokic, who had 20 of his 25 points in the first half.

Ivica Zubac and Nicolas Batum collaborated on a surprisingly effective defensive strategy against the usually unstoppable Jokic. The three-time MVP was kept scoreless for 11 minutes during the third quarter and managed just 2 for 9 in the second half.

Nikola Jokic scored 25 points for Denver, and Jamal Murray contributed 21. The Nuggets have now lost a potential series-clinching playoff game for the fourth time in five attempts over the past two seasons since their 2023 championship victory.

Game 7 will take place in Denver and will be broadcast live on TNT starting at 4:30 PM PST.