The first Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs is officially on the way, and it comes thanks to the intense back-and-forth between the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Clippers. After getting blown out in Game 5, the Clippers bounced back in a big way on Thursday night, beating the Nuggets at the Intuit Dome to even the series 3-3.
With a trip to the second round on the line, Game 7 will now be played Saturday night in Denver. The winner moves on to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.
Let’s break down how the Clippers pulled it off — and what to expect in Game 7 of this thrilling Nuggets vs Clippers showdown.
Clippers Stick to Their Formula
Los Angeles didn’t reinvent the wheel in Game 6. Instead, the Clippers leaned on their veteran stars and solid team defense to take control. Kawhi Leonard and James Harden led the offensive charge, while Ivica Zubac and Nicolas Batum provided support on both ends of the court.
Leonard finished with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a commanding performance. Harden added 28 points and eight assists, shaking off a rough Game 5. Zubac dominated the paint, especially in the second half, helping limit Denver star Nikola Jokić.
Norman Powell’s Clutch Performance
Perhaps the unsung hero of the night was Norman Powell. Every time Denver made a push in the fourth quarter, Powell had an answer. His aggressive drives and timely shots helped maintain the Clippers’ lead when the pressure was mounting.
Powell ended the game with 24 points on 9-of-14 shooting, giving the Clippers exactly what they needed off the bench. His performance gave the Nuggets fits, especially as they tried to rally late.
Jokić Held Quiet in Second Half
Nuggets center and three-time MVP Nikola Jokić couldn’t get into rhythm in Game 6, particularly after halftime. Thanks to Zubac’s physical defense and the Clippers’ team effort, Jokić was limited to just five points, two rebounds, and four assists in the second half.
That lack of production showed up on the scoreboard. The Nuggets were only +1 with Jokić on the court, a stark contrast from games earlier in the series when his presence created huge runs.
James Harden Steps Up
James Harden’s playoff struggles are well-documented, and Game 5 didn’t help that reputation. With Denver fans chanting “Harden sucks,” he managed only 11 points on 3-of-9 shooting. But Game 6 was a different story.
Harden came out aggressive from the start, getting to the rim, setting up teammates, and knocking down threes. His late-game three-pointer helped seal the win, and his all-around effort was a reminder of what he’s capable of when locked in.
For the Clippers to complete the Nuggets vs Clippers comeback in Game 7, they’ll need more of this version of Harden.
Clippers Finally Lean Into Nicolas Batum
Veteran forward Nicolas Batum has quietly been one of the Clippers’ most reliable players in this series. Known for his 3-point shooting and defense, Batum didn’t start Game 6 but played a series-high 34 minutes, including opening the second half.
He finished with just five points, but his impact was felt far beyond the box score. The Clippers outscored the Nuggets by 11 while Batum was on the floor, thanks to his smart rotations and perimeter defense.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if Batum starts Game 7. His presence has been a difference-maker in this tight Nuggets vs Clippers series.
Nuggets Face Tough Questions
The defending champions now find themselves in a dangerous spot. After dominating Game 5, the Nuggets failed to close the door in Game 6. Their effort, particularly in the third quarter, left much to be desired. A 12-0 Clippers run gave L.A. a double-digit lead, and Denver couldn’t fully recover.
Jokić looked tired. Jamal Murray struggled to find his shot. And the bench, once a strength, didn’t provide enough spark.
Denver has been here before — they’ve won Game 7s in the past. But if they want to advance, they’ll need to bring more intensity and figure out how to handle the Clippers’ adjustments.
Game 7: What’s at Stake?
Saturday’s Game 7 between the Nuggets and Clippers promises to be one of the most dramatic games of the postseason so far. For the Nuggets, it’s about defending their title and proving they still have what it takes. For the Clippers, it’s a chance to finally break through a tough first-round series and take down the reigning champs.
The winner will advance to face the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team that’s been resting and preparing while the Nuggets vs Clippers battle has raged on.
Final Thoughts
This series has had everything — blowouts, comebacks, individual heroics, and plenty of drama. And now, with one game left to decide it all, the pressure is at an all-time high.
Game 7. Nuggets vs Clippers. Everything on the line.
Don’t miss it.