The clippers vs denver nuggets match player stats tell the story of one of the most anticipated Game 7 battles in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. This first-round Western Conference clash brought intensity, drama, and unforgettable moments as two evenly-matched teams battled for survival at Ball Arena in Denver. The stakes couldn’t have been higher—winner advances to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, loser goes home.
The denver nuggets match player stats clippers vs revealed a dominant performance by the home team, who pulled away with a commanding 120-101 victory to win the series 4-3. Six Nuggets players reached double figures in scoring as Denver outscored LA by a combined 72-40 in the second and third quarters, turning what started as a competitive contest into a decisive blowout. After dropping Game 6 at the Intuit Dome, Denver responded with their most complete performance of the series.
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🏟️ Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field
Teams and Key Players
| Team | Key Players | Notable Performances |
|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | Nikola Jokić, Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, Jamal Murray, Russell Westbrook, Michael Porter Jr. | Gordon led with 22 points, Braun contributed 21, Jokić recorded 16 points/10 rebounds/8 assists |
| LA Clippers | Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, Derrick Jones Jr. | Leonard scored 22 points, Harden managed only 7 points on poor shooting |
Game Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Type | NBA Playoffs 2025 – First Round, Game 7 |
| Location | Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado |
| Date & Time | Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Series Record | Nuggets won series 4-3 |
| Significance | Winner advances to Western Conference Semifinals vs Oklahoma City Thunder |
| General Recap | Denver dominated with a 17-0 run in the third quarter and led by as many as 35 points to eliminate the Clippers |
Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring
| Team | Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Quarter 3 | Quarter 4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LA Clippers | 26 | 21 | 19 | 35 | 101 |
| Denver Nuggets | 21 | 37 | 35 | 27 | 120 |
Additional Breakdown Details
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Key Moments | 17-0 Denver run in third quarter, Westbrook’s celebratory dunk with technical foul at 107-76 |
| Momentum Shifts | Clippers led 26-21 after Q1, then Denver seized control with 37-21 second quarter |
| Injuries/Substitutions | Jokić picked up three consecutive fouls in 48 seconds late in third quarter, went to bench with game decided |
| Strategies | Christian Braun’s lockdown defense on James Harden, Clippers’ crowd defense on Jokić |
| Extra Insights | Over 100 Clippers fans flown to Denver by owner Steve Ballmer, crowd energy shifted dramatically after halftime |
What Was the Event? This was Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs first-round series between the fourth-seeded Denver Nuggets and fifth-seeded LA Clippers.
Where Was the Match Held? The decisive game took place at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, giving the Nuggets critical home-court advantage.
When Did It Take Place? The game was played on Saturday evening, May 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.
Why Was the Match Significant? Beyond being an elimination game, this represented Denver’s chance at redemption after blowing a 20-point lead in last year’s Game 7 loss to Minnesota. For the Clippers, it was another opportunity to break through after consecutive first-round exits.
How Did It Unfold Generally? The Clippers started strong with a 26-21 first quarter lead, but Denver took control in the second period and never looked back, eventually building a 35-point advantage.
📊 Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
Quarter 1: Competitive Start
Key Moments: Derrick Jones Jr. made an immediate impact in the starting lineup with early scores and a blocked shot on Murray. Jokić found Christian Braun with a perfect pass for an athletic slam.
Shifts in Momentum: The Clippers established an early rhythm with Jones Jr.’s energy and Leonard’s aggressive drives to the rim. LA took a 26-21 lead after the opening period.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: Clippers inserted Jones Jr. into the starting lineup for additional defense and length against Denver’s offensive threats.
Notable Strategies: Ty Lue assigned the taller Jones Jr. to guard Murray, making it difficult for Denver’s star to generate space.
Extra Insights: The pace was intense and befitting of a Game 7, with both teams playing physical defense and settling into the high-stakes atmosphere.
Quarter 2: Denver Takes Control
Key Moments: Russell Westbrook intercepted a Harden crosscourt pass and fed Aaron Gordon for a two-handed jam. The Nuggets’ defense intensified significantly.
Shifts in Momentum: Denver outscored LA 37-21 in the quarter to grab a 58-47 halftime advantage. Christian Braun led Denver with 11 points and five rebounds, while Westbrook added 10 points off the bench including two three-pointers.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: Westbrook provided crucial energy off the bench, knocking down corner threes that the Clippers initially didn’t contest.
Notable Strategies: Denver increased defensive pressure on Harden and Leonard while running in transition after defensive stops.
Extra Insights: Jokić facilitated effectively with nine points, six assists, four rebounds and three steals in the first half despite facing double teams.
Quarter 3: The Knockout Blow
Key Moments: After Leonard hit a three-pointer to cut the deficit to 58-50, Denver responded with a devastating 17-0 run featuring multiple three-pointers and thunderous dunks.
Shifts in Momentum: This was the definitive turning point. The Nuggets outscored the Clippers 35-19 in the third quarter, building the lead to 93-66.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: Jokić picked up his third, fourth, and fifth fouls within 48 seconds late in the quarter and went to the bench, but his teammates maintained the massive lead.
Notable Strategies: Denver attacked with a variety of weapons: Braun’s wide-open threes, Gordon’s dunks and tip-ins, and Porter Jr.’s corner threes.
Extra Insights: The Clippers looked shell-shocked as Denver’s offensive explosion continued unabated. The home crowd reached fever pitch.
Quarter 4: Garbage Time
Key Moments: Russell Westbrook’s steal and breakaway dunk put Denver up 107-76, and he willingly took a technical foul for hanging and swinging on the rim in celebration.
Shifts in Momentum: With the game decided, Clippers coach Ty Lue pulled his starters with over six minutes remaining and emptied the bench.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: Both teams cleared their benches, giving reserves extended playing time in a decided contest.
Notable Strategies: Denver focused on managing the clock and avoiding injuries while the Clippers played out the string.
Extra Insights: The margin reached 35 points at its peak, representing Denver’s largest Game 7 blowout victory in franchise history.
🌟 Highlight Standout Performances
Star Players and Their Stats
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists | FG% | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aaron Gordon | DEN | 22 | 4 | 5 | 56.3% (9-16) | Played elite defense on Leonard, multiple dunks |
| Christian Braun | DEN | 21 | 5 | 4 | 53.3% (8-15) | 3-5 from three, lockdown defense on Harden |
| Nikola Jokić | DEN | 16 | 10 | 8 | 42.9% (6-14) | Triple-double caliber, 3 steals |
| Russell Westbrook | DEN | 16 | 5 | 5 | – | 5 steals, high energy off bench |
| Jamal Murray | DEN | 16 | 5 | – | – | Solid floor game in win |
| Michael Porter Jr. | DEN | 15 | 6 | – | 54.5% (6-11) | 3-8 from three-point range |
| Kawhi Leonard | LAC | 22 | 5 | – | 46.2% (6-13) | 2-4 from three, team-high scorer |
| Derrick Jones Jr. | LAC | 12 | – | – | – | 3 blocks, solid starting debut |
| Ivica Zubac | LAC | 10 | 14 | – | – | Strong rebounding, defended Jokić well |
| James Harden | LAC | 7 | – | – | 25% (2-8) | Struggled significantly vs Braun’s defense |
Shooting Percentages
| Team | Field Goal % | 3-Point % | Free Throw % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 51.7% | 40.9% | 80.0% |
| LA Clippers | 39.8% | 28.6% | 75.0% |
Assists, Steals, Blocks
| Team | Total Assists | Total Steals | Total Blocks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 28 | 12 | 6 |
| LA Clippers | 18 | 5 | 5 |
Clutch Moments
The clippers vs denver nuggets match player stats showcase several game-defining sequences:
- Jokić’s stepback jumper to open the third quarter floodgates, followed by Braun’s wide-open three
- Aaron Gordon’s reverse two-handed dunk, tip-in, and pull-up jumper during the 17-0 run
- Porter Jr.’s consecutive three-pointers from the corner and wing that extended Denver’s lead
- Westbrook’s celebratory steal-and-dunk with the technical foul that symbolized Denver’s dominance
Leadership and Teamwork
Jokić praised his teammates’ contributions, stating that everyone stepped up offensively, defensively, and energy-wise. Christian Braun credited Russell Westbrook for helping him defend Harden, noting Westbrook’s familiarity with Harden’s game from playing with and against him. The collective effort exemplified championship-level teamwork.
📈 Key Statistics
Final Score
| Team | Final Points |
|---|---|
| LA Clippers | 101 |
| Denver Nuggets | 120 |
Total Points and Rebounds
| Team | Total Points | Total Rebounds | Points in Paint | Fast Break Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 120 | 48 | 56 | 24 |
| LA Clippers | 101 | 38 | 42 | 12 |
Turnovers
| Team | Total Turnovers | Points Off Turnovers |
|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 11 | 8 |
| LA Clippers | 15 | 18 |
Time of Possession (Estimated Based on Pace)
| Team | Estimated Possession Time |
|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 24:30 |
| LA Clippers | 23:30 |
Defensive Statistics
| Team | Steals | Blocks | Defensive Rebounds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 12 | 6 | 38 |
| LA Clippers | 5 | 5 | 28 |
Total Points Comparison by Half
| Team | First Half | Second Half | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 58 | 62 | 120 |
| LA Clippers | 47 | 54 | 101 |
🗣️ Quotes or Reactions
Post-game reactions captured the contrasting emotions of triumph and disappointment:
Denver Nuggets Players and Staff
- Nikola Jokić on team performance: “The rebounding and defense was amazing. We had a lot of opportunities to run and a lot of guys stepped up and a lot of guys made baskets”
- Jokić on playoff mentality: “In playoffs we know that everybody needs to step up, offensively, defensively, whatever, energy-wise. And everybody who plays needs to contribute something. It was special today the guys did that”
- Christian Braun on defending Harden: “Everybody behind me allowed me to guard him. But I think maybe the biggest part was Russ. He’s played against James, he’s played with James, so he knows his game. The coaches trusted me tonight. We didn’t want to switch. They kept me on him all night”
- Interim Coach David Adelman on the victory: “It feels good, but I also know we’re flying to O-K-C tomorrow”, acknowledging the challenge ahead against the top-seeded Thunder
LA Clippers Players
- Kawhi Leonard on the loss: “I don’t think this team was 30 points better than us. We saw that throughout the first six games of this series, but you’ve got to give them credit. They came out, ran hard in transition, got easy points and they made shots”
Key Takeaways from Reactions
- Denver’s players emphasized collective effort and defensive intensity as keys to victory
- The Nuggets showed mental toughness by bouncing back from last year’s Game 7 collapse
- Clippers players acknowledged Denver’s execution while expressing frustration with the lopsided result
- Braun’s defensive assignment on Harden proved pivotal, holding him to just 7 points
- The team chemistry and unselfishness stood out in Denver’s performance
🧠 Match Analysis
What Went Right for Denver
Offensive Execution:
- Six players scored in double figures, showcasing balanced offensive attack
- Ball movement was exceptional with 28 team assists
- Transition offense thrived with 24 fast break points
- Three-point shooting at 40.9% kept the Clippers’ defense honest
Defensive Dominance:
- Christian Braun’s defense limited James Harden to 7 points on 2-of-8 shooting
- Forced 15 Clippers turnovers leading to easy transition opportunities
- Controlled the defensive glass with 38 rebounds
- Created 12 steals through active hands and anticipation
Mental Fortitude:
- Overcame last year’s Game 7 collapse against Minnesota
- Responded to Game 6 road loss with complete focus
- Maintained composure when Jokić picked up quick fouls
What Went Wrong for LA Clippers
Offensive Struggles:
- Shot just 39.8% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range
- James Harden scored only 7 points, well below his playoff average
- Norman Powell couldn’t replicate his Game 6 performance (8 points)
- Only generated 18 team assists, indicating limited ball movement
Defensive Breakdowns:
- Couldn’t contain Denver’s second and third quarter scoring explosion
- Failed to match Denver’s transition intensity
- Allowed a devastating 17-0 run in the third quarter
- Struggled to secure defensive rebounds (28 vs Denver’s 38)
Momentum Loss:
- Surrendered 26-21 first quarter lead quickly in second period
- Never recovered from halftime deficit
- Visible frustration as the margin continued to expand
Controversial Calls or Game-Changing Moments
- Jokić’s three quick fouls in 48 seconds late in third quarter could have shifted momentum, but Denver’s lead was already insurmountable
- Westbrook’s technical foul for rim-hanging celebration at 107-76 punctuated Denver’s dominance rather than causing controversy
- No major controversial officiating decisions impacted the outcome
Recent Form Comparison
Denver Nuggets Season Context:
- Regular season: 50-32 record, 4th seed in Western Conference
- Organization fired head coach and general manager during season following last year’s Game 7 collapse
- Interim coach David Adelman led team through tumultuous year
- Jokić continued MVP-caliber play throughout playoffs
LA Clippers Season Context:
- Regular season: 50-32 record, 5th seed in Western Conference
- Entered playoffs as hottest team in league, winning 18 of 21 games
- Kawhi Leonard returned to health in second half of season
- Third consecutive first-round playoff exit (2023: Suns in 5, 2024: Mavericks in 6, 2025: Nuggets in 7)
Statistical Disparities
| Category | Denver Advantage | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Second-Third Quarter Scoring | 72-40 combined | Decisive momentum shift |
| Bench Production | Westbrook’s 16 points, 5 steals | Critical energy boost |
| Defensive Efficiency | Held Clippers to 39.8% FG | Forced difficult shots |
| Transition Points | 24-12 edge | Capitalized on turnovers |
🏁 Conclusion
The clippers vs denver nuggets match player stats from Game 7 tell the story of Denver’s dominant 120-101 victory that propelled them into the Western Conference Semifinals. This first-round series showcased elite basketball with neither team winning consecutive games after Game 2, but when it mattered most, the Nuggets delivered their most complete performance.
Aaron Gordon’s 22 points, Christian Braun’s 21 points and lockdown defense, and contributions from six players in double figures demonstrated the depth and resilience that championship teams possess. While Nikola Jokić’s 16-10-8 stat line wasn’t his most spectacular, it highlighted the Nuggets’ ability to win without relying solely on their superstar.
For the Clippers, this defeat marks another painful early playoff exit despite their late-season surge. The inability of James Harden and Norman Powell to produce offensively, combined with Denver’s suffocating defense, proved insurmountable. Kawhi Leonard’s 22 points weren’t enough to overcome a collective team breakdown in the crucial second and third quarters.
Impact on Standings and Playoff Picture: The Nuggets advanced to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder (68-14 regular season record), who swept Memphis and enjoyed a week of rest. The teams split their regular season series 2-2, setting up what promised to be an epic second-round battle between two of the Western Conference’s elite squads.
What’s Next: For Denver, the focus shifted immediately to preparing for the well-rested Thunder, with the series opener scheduled for Monday night in Oklahoma City. The Nuggets needed to maintain their Game 7 energy and execution against an even more formidable opponent.
For the Clippers, an offseason of soul-searching began. With questions surrounding James Harden’s player option and the team’s ability to advance deep in the playoffs with their current core, organizational decisions loomed large.
Final Thought: Game 7s define legacies, and the Nuggets emphatically wrote a redemption story after last year’s heartbreak. As Jokić noted, everyone contributed, and that collective effort exemplifies what makes playoff basketball so compelling—when role players elevate their games and stars facilitate rather than dominate, championship potential emerges. Denver’s 19-point blowout victory serves as a statement: this team, scarred by past failures, has the mental toughness to compete for another championship.
❓ FAQs Section
Q1: What was the final score of the Clippers vs Denver Nuggets Game 7?
The Denver Nuggets defeated the LA Clippers 120-101 in Game 7 of their first-round playoff series on May 3, 2025, at Ball Arena in Denver.
Q2: Who were the top performers in the Clippers vs Denver Nuggets match?
For Denver: Aaron Gordon led with 22 points, followed by Christian Braun (21 points), and Nikola Jokić (16 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists). Russell Westbrook, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. each scored 16, 16, and 15 points respectively. For LA: Kawhi Leonard led with 22 points, while James Harden struggled with only 7 points.
Q3: What was the turning point in Game 7?
The decisive moment came in the third quarter when Denver unleashed a 17-0 run after Kawhi Leonard cut the deficit to eight points. The Nuggets outscored the Clippers 72-40 combined in the second and third quarters, turning a close game into a blowout.
Q4: How did Christian Braun defend James Harden so effectively?
Braun held Harden to just 7 points on 2-of-8 shooting by staying attached without switching, aided by Russell Westbrook’s guidance on defending Harden’s tendencies. The Nuggets’ coaching staff trusted Braun to stay on Harden all game, and the strategy paid off brilliantly.
Q5: What does this victory mean for the Denver Nuggets?
The win advances Denver to the Western Conference Semifinals against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. More importantly, it provided redemption after last year’s devastating Game 7 collapse against Minnesota when they blew a 20-point fourth-quarter lead at home.
Q6: Why did the Clippers struggle so much offensively?
The Clippers shot just 39.8% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range. James Harden’s 7-point performance and Norman Powell’s struggles (8 points after scoring 24 in Game 6) left too much offensive burden on Kawhi Leonard. Denver’s defense, particularly Braun’s work on Harden, disrupted LA’s offensive rhythm completely.
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