Nuggets and Clippers Clash in Do-or-Die Game 7…
The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers have battled to a deadlock in their series, setting the stage for a high-stakes Game 7 in Denver. With the series tied at 3-3, the winner earns the right to face the top-seeded and well-rested Oklahoma City Thunder, while the loser’s season ends in disappointment. Both teams have proven capable of winning, so the Nuggets will need to dig deep if they want to prevail—because the Clippers won’t make it easy. These teams squared off in a Game 7 back in the 2020 Bubble, but this time the arena will be packed. Denver fans, get ready for a rollercoaster.
Game Details
Matchup: Denver Nuggets (3-3) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (3-3)
Time: 5:30 PM MDT
Location: Ball Arena (“The Can”), Denver, CO
Watch/Listen: Altitude, TNT/TruTV, Altitude Radio 92.5 FM. (Tip: say you’re on confetti duty to sneak in.)
Opponent Coverage: 213 Hoops
Position Breakdown
| Position | Nuggets | Clippers | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| PG | Jamal Murray | Kris Dunn | Nuggets |
| SG | Christian Braun | James Harden | Clippers |
| SF | Michael Porter Jr. | Norman Powell | Even |
| PF | Aaron Gordon | Kawhi Leonard | Clippers |
| C | Nikola Jokic | Ivica Zubac | Nuggets |
| Bench | Westbrook, Watson, Pickett | Bogdanovic, Simmons, Jones Jr. | Even |
Injury Update: DaRon Holmes II – out (Achilles)
Three Key Themes
1. Which Star Shines Brightest?
Jokic and Kawhi have each had big moments this series, but not consistently. Kawhi was explosive in Game 2, while Jokic only eclipsed 30 points once (Game 4). The Nuggets need more than a standard triple-double from Jokic—he has to dominate and elevate the offense. Meanwhile, the Clippers’ defense, anchored by Kawhi and Zubac, has done a solid job disrupting Denver’s rhythm. The key may be which Hall of Fame-caliber player controls all four quarters.
2. Potential Final Chapter for a Championship Core
Tonight might be the last time we see Jokic, Murray, Gordon, and Porter Jr. play together. If so, they’ll leave behind a legacy that includes Denver’s first NBA title—and the sense they could have done even more with better health or roster depth. Fans have been lucky to witness this group’s growth and chemistry. If this is indeed their finale, may it be under the banner they raised together.
3. The Smart Bet: Nuggets -120
Game 7s are about will and execution. With everything on the line, back the defending champs to rise to the moment and punch their ticket to the next round.
