Denver Nuggets vs La Clippers Picks and Predictions April 19th 2025

Nuggets, Clippers Set for High-Stakes 4-5 Series After Identical Records

After posting matching 50-32 records, the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers will open one of the most evenly matched first-round playoff series in the Western Conference. Despite the identical marks, Denver secured the No. 4 seed and home-court advantage thanks to a better conference record — and a timely win in the NBA Cup back in December. Game 1 tips off Saturday afternoon in the Mile High City.

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Clippers Surge Into Playoffs With Star Power

After a sluggish start, the Clippers caught fire in the second half of the season, going 32-15 after Jan. 8 — the last time they faced Denver — and riding an eight-game win streak into the playoffs. The return of Kawhi Leonard proved pivotal, as he played in 37 games after recovering from a right knee injury and averaged 21.5 points per game.

Leonard’s presence has lifted the workload off James Harden, who enters the series as L.A.’s leader in both scoring (22.8 PPG) and assists (8.7 APG).

“We just found ways to win,” said Clippers coach Tyronn Lue. “We competed and we played together.”

Norman Powell, the Clippers’ X-factor, was particularly lethal against the Nuggets this season, averaging 27.8 points across the four matchups — well above his 21.8 season average. His continued scoring will be vital for L.A.’s upset chances.

Nuggets Stabilize After Late-Season Shakeup

Denver closed the season on a strong note, but not without drama. After a midseason four-game skid, the organization made the shocking move of firing head coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth. Assistant David Adelman took the reins and led the team to three straight wins to close out the regular season.

“The locker room right now is in a really healthy place,” Adelman said. “Sometimes, you come out the other side a better person, and as a team, that can happen too.”

At the heart of Denver’s playoff hopes is MVP candidate Nikola Jokic, who made history this season by averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists — becoming the first center to post a triple-double average and the first player ever to rank in the top three in all three categories.

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Jokic will face one of his toughest matchups in Ivica Zubac, a Defensive Player of the Year candidate and one of the few big men capable of anchoring against Jokic’s multifaceted offensive attack.

Jamal Murray’s health will also be key. The point guard, who averaged 21.4 points, missed six games late with a hamstring issue but returned for Denver’s final two contests. Forward Aaron Gordon, another injury-troubled piece, appears ready to take on defensive duties against Leonard.

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Key Matchups to Watch:

• Jokic vs. Zubac: A battle in the paint that could decide pace and control.
• Leonard vs. Gordon: A clash of physicality between two elite two-way players.
• Harden vs. Braun: Can Christian Braun keep up with the crafty veteran?

Dead Even on Paper, Firepower on the Floor

This series is perfectly poised — same record, 2-2 season series split, superstar power on both sides. The difference may come down to which supporting cast performs better and which team can stay healthy. Denver’s altitude and home-court advantage may matter early, but if the Clippers’ win streak is any indication, this series could go the distance.