Veteran Stars Shine as Clippers Force Game 7 Against Nuggets

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Clippers kept their playoff hopes alive with a gritty 111–105 win over the Denver Nuggets in Game 6 of their Western Conference playoff series. After falling behind 3–2 earlier in the series, the Clippers bounced back thanks to a pair of standout performances by veteran stars James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. The win sets up a decisive Game 7, continuing one of the most intense matchups of the postseason.

James Harden led the way with 28 points, eight assists, and six rebounds, rebounding impressively from a quiet 11-point outing in Game 5. Kawhi Leonard added 27 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, showcasing the poise and skill that has made him one of the NBA’s most dependable playoff performers. While the spotlight remained on Harden and Leonard, key contributions from the Clippers’ bench helped secure the victory. Nicolas Batum, despite scoring only six points, provided critical late-game defense with three blocks, along with six assists and five rebounds. Norman Powell also continued his strong season, chipping in 24 points off the bench.

Defensively, Los Angeles managed to contain Denver’s potent duo of Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. Jokić, typically a dominant force, finished with 25 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds—a solid performance by most standards, though subdued for the reigning MVP. Meanwhile, Murray, coming off a 43-point explosion in Game 5, started strong with 12 first-quarter points but was held to just 21 by the final buzzer. The victory was a testament to the Clippers’ ability to respond under pressure, particularly the leadership of their veterans. With Game 7 looming, Los Angeles carries momentum into a win-or-go-home scenario. Whether that momentum will be enough to overcome Denver’s playoff experience remains to be seen.