Nuggets Roll Past Clippers in Game 7 Showdown

Denver Advances to Face Oklahoma City in West Semifinals

The Denver Nuggets delivered a commanding performance in Game 7 of the first-round playoff series, dismantling the Los Angeles Clippers 120–101 to advance to the Western Conference semifinals. This decisive victory sets up a second-round clash against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.

Denver displayed superb teamwork and offensive balance, with six players scoring 15 points or more. Aaron Gordon led the charge with 22 points, while Christian Braun impressed with 21. Reigning MVP Nikola Jokić added 16 points along with 10 rebounds and 8 assists, showcasing his signature all-around excellence. Jamal Murray and Russell Westbrook each contributed 16 points, and Michael Porter Jr. rounded out the scoring effort with 15 points.

The Nuggets took control in the second quarter, outscoring the Clippers 37–21 and establishing a dominant 28-point lead by the third. Their relentless pace and precision shooting proved too much for Los Angeles, who struggled to keep up on both ends of the floor.

For the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard put up 22 points in an otherwise disappointing performance for the team. James Harden had a tough night, managing only 7 points on 2-of-8 shooting, though he did add 13 assists. Despite expectations for a deeper playoff run, this marks the Clippers’ third consecutive first-round exit.

With momentum on their side and a well-rounded roster firing on all cylinders, the Nuggets now turn their focus to the Western Conference semifinals, where they will battle the Oklahoma City Thunder. Game 1 is scheduled to take place in Oklahoma City on Monday night.