Denver Nuggets Dominate Game 7 to Eliminate LA Clippers in Style

In a pulsating Game 7 clash at Ball Arena, the Denver Nuggets delivered a basketball masterclass to overpower the Los Angeles Clippers 120-101 and secure their place in the Western Conference Semifinals. With the series tied 3-3, everything was on the line—and Denver answered the call with intensity, precision, and collective brilliance that left the Clippers stunned and their fans silenced.

🏀 Tip-off took place at 02:30 BST on Sunday, 4 May 2025, and what followed was a showcase of team basketball at its finest. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. A redemption arc after last season’s Game 7 heartbreak against Minnesota—and a performance that reminded the league why the reigning champions should never be underestimated.

📊 Final Score

🔥 Nuggets Ignite in the Middle Quarters

Trailing by five after the opening 12 minutes, Denver flipped the switch in the second and third quarters, outscoring the Clippers 72-40. A blistering 17-0 run in the third quarter, right after Kawhi Leonard hit a three to narrow the gap to eight, effectively shut the door on any Clippers comeback.

And while Nikola Jokic posted a near triple-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, this was not a solo act. Aaron Gordon led the team with 22 points, Christian Braun offered both lockdown defence and 21 points of his own, while Jamal Murray and Russell Westbrook added 16 apiece. Michael Porter Jr. chipped in with 15, rounding out a balanced and deadly offensive display.

🔒 Defensive Masterclass

Credit must be given to Denver’s defensive scheming, particularly the effort of Christian Braun, who was tasked with shadowing James Harden all night. Harden ended with just 7 points on 2-of-8 shooting—a far cry from his usual output. Braun’s discipline, aided by coaching strategy and inside knowledge from ex-teammate Russell Westbrook, proved decisive in neutralising LA’s primary playmaker.

📈 Betting Insights Recap

Pre-game markets had the Nuggets as slight favourites at -118, and they comfortably covered the spread of -1.5. The over/under line of 208 was also obliterated, with the combined total reaching 221 points. Bettors who took player props on Russell Westbrook over 11.5 points or Jamal Murray over 5.5 assists cashed in handsomely.

🎯 Standout Performers

• ⭐ Aaron Gordon – 22 PTS, 6 REB, 1 AST
• ⭐ Christian Braun – 21 PTS, 6 REB, elite defence on Harden
• ⭐ Nikola Jokic – 16 PTS, 10 REB, 8 AST
• ⭐ Jamal Murray – 16 PTS, 6 AST
• ⭐ Russell Westbrook – 16 PTS, 4 REB, 1 technical (for flair!)

🧠 What This Means Going Forward

Denver now advances to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, who are fresh off a first-round sweep and rested. That second-round series begins Monday night at 02:30 BST, and if the Nuggets can replicate the cohesion and energy shown in Game 7, we may be in for another classic.

For the Clippers, the offseason begins with serious introspection. Despite Kawhi Leonard’s 22 points, and a roster loaded with veterans like Harden and Zubac, the team collapsed when it mattered most. Their defensive rotations were late, their offence stagnant, and their body language betrayed a team out of answers.

📅 Nuggets vs Thunder Coming Up

Set your alarms and mark your calendars—Denver vs OKC is going to be electric. Two teams with MVP-calibre centres, young stars, and polar opposite styles. Can Denver’s championship grit overcome the Thunder’s youthful firepower?

One thing’s for sure—the Nuggets are rolling into Round 2 with momentum, belief, and a city behind them. 🏆

Stay tuned to LiveSportIQ.com for expert insights, previews, and betting analysis as the NBA Playoffs heat up. 🎙️