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Clippers vs Nuggets Game 3 Preview: LA Looks Dangerous with Healthy Kawhi
The Los Angeles Clippers head into Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets feeling like they have the edge — and that edge is named Kawhi Leonard.
With the series tied at 1-1, Game 3 on Thursday night in Los Angeles could be the swing game — and the Clippers believe they have their difference-maker.
Kawhi’s Return to Form Changes Everything
Kawhi Leonard missed time late in the regular season due to knee soreness, but through two playoff games, he’s been unstoppable. After a modest opener, Leonard erupted for 39 points on 15-of-19 shooting in Game 2, helping LA secure a 105-102 road win and homecourt advantage in the series.
He’s averaging 30.5 points on 70.6% shooting, and Clippers coach Tyronn Lue knows what that means.
“We know if we’ve got a healthy Kawhi, we can win any series.”
Leonard’s presence gives LA the kind of two-way superstar that can tilt any playoff matchup, especially against a team like Denver that relies heavily on interior creation.
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Clippers’ Balanced Attack Gaining Momentum
Leonard’s scoring has been supported by James Harden, who’s averaging 25 points and 9 assists, and big man Ivica Zubac, who’s putting up 18.5 points and 12.5 rebounds per game.
LA’s defense has also shown flashes of brilliance, forcing 20 turnovers in Game 2 and limiting Denver’s shot selection down the stretch.
They’ll now play two straight at Crypto.com Arena, where they’ll aim to take control of the series.
Denver Needs to Clean Things Up
The Nuggets have been far from sharp despite Nikola Jokic posting elite numbers: 27.5 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds per game so far.
Game 1 was a narrow OT win. Game 2 was lost due to:
- 20 turnovers (leading to 21 Clippers points)
- 8 missed free throws
- Costly late-game errors, including two late Jokic turnovers
“You can’t miss eight free throws in games like this,” interim coach David Adelman said. “That was a killer.”
Despite the struggles, Denver remains confident. Jokic and Jamal Murray (22 PPG) form one of the league’s best duos, and Aaron Gordon has stepped up offensively, averaging 19.5 points and 7 rebounds.
But if they’re going to reclaim control, they’ll need to be sharper — particularly under pressure.
Every Play, Every Point
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Game 3 Storylines to Watch
Clippers:
- Can Kawhi sustain his shooting pace?
- Will Harden continue controlling pace and playmaking?
- Can Zubac exploit Denver’s interior D?
Nuggets:
- Can they cut down on turnovers?
- Will Jokic get more efficient help from Murray and Porter Jr.?
- How will they handle LA’s physicality on the road?
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FAQs
When is Clippers vs Nuggets Game 3?
Thursday night in Los Angeles.
Who won Game 1 and Game 2?
Denver won Game 1 in OT; the Clippers won Game 2 by 3 points.
How is Kawhi Leonard playing?
He’s averaging 30.5 points on over 70% shooting.
What’s hurting the Nuggets so far?
Turnovers and missed free throws — especially late.
Is this series still wide open?
Absolutely. The first two games have both gone down to the wire.
Final Word: Clippers vs Nuggets Game 3 Preview
With Kawhi Leonard healthy and locked in, the Clippers look like a real threat in the West. His playoff pedigree and efficiency give LA a serious edge.
But the Nuggets aren’t going away. With Nikola Jokic still posting triple-doubles and the series tied 1-1, Game 3 could define this series.
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