The Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets will meet at Ball Arena for the first game of the Western Conference First Round in the NBA Playoffs. This game is set for Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 3:30 PM. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN.
The Clippers enter the playoffs with strong performances in their recent games. They secured a win against the Golden State Warriors with a score of 124-119. James Harden led the team with 39 points and 10 assists. The Clippers also defeated the Sacramento Kings and Houston Rockets in their last two games.
The Denver Nuggets have also shown good form leading up to the playoffs. They won against the Houston Rockets with a score of 126-111. Nikola Jokić contributed 18 points and 7 assists in that game. The Nuggets also achieved victories over the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings in their recent outings.
Nuggets Preview
The Denver Nuggets are starting their playoff journey with Game 1 of the Western Conference First Round. They finished the regular season with a record of 50-32. At home, they had a record of 26-15. The Nuggets are ranked 4th in the Western Conference and 2nd in the Northwest Division.
David Adelman is serving as the interim head coach for the Nuggets. In their last 10 games, the team went 5-5. They ended the regular season 18 games back from the top spot. The team is looking to build on their recent wins as they enter the playoffs.
Nikola Jokić is a key player for the Nuggets. He averaged 29.8 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game in the regular season. Jokić ranks 3rd in the league for points per game and 2nd for assists per game. His performance will be crucial for the Nuggets in the playoffs.
Other important players include Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Murray averaged 21.5 points and 6.1 assists per game. Porter Jr. contributed with 18.1 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. Their contributions will be important as the Nuggets aim to advance in the playoffs.
Clippers Preview
The Los Angeles Clippers are in Game 3 of the Western Conference First Round in the NBA Playoffs. They finished the regular season with a record of 50-32. Their performance at home was strong, with a record of 30-11. In their last 10 games, they have won 9, showing good form heading into the playoffs.
James Harden is a key player for the Clippers. He averaged 22.6 points per game during the regular season, ranking 10th in the league. Harden also led the team in assists, with 8.7 per game. His shooting percentage from the field was 40.7%, and he made 2.9 three-pointers per game.
Ivica Zubac is another important player for the team. He averaged 16.7 points and 12.6 rebounds per game. Zubac led the league in rebounds, showing his strength in the paint. His field goal percentage was 62.7%, making him a reliable scorer inside.
Norman Powell contributed significantly with 21.9 points per game. His shooting from beyond the arc was impressive, with a 42.2% three-point percentage. Derrick Jones Jr. and Kris Dunn also played roles in the team’s success, adding depth to the roster.
Statistical Breakdown for Nuggets vs Clippers
The game between the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers will be shaped by key stats. Nikola Jokić’s ability to score and assist will be vital for the Nuggets. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. will need to support him with their scoring. For the Clippers, James Harden’s scoring and playmaking will be important. Ivica Zubac’s rebounding and scoring inside will also play a big role. The performance of Norman Powell from beyond the arc can impact the game’s outcome.
- Nikola Jokić: 29.8 points, 12.8 rebounds, 10.3 assists per game
- Jamal Murray: 21.5 points, 6.1 assists per game
- Michael Porter Jr.: 18.1 points, 7.0 rebounds per game
- James Harden: 22.6 points, 8.7 assists per game
- Ivica Zubac: 16.7 points, 12.6 rebounds per game
- Norman Powell: 21.9 points per game, 42.2% three-point percentage
Betting Insights
The Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets are set to meet, and bettors have plenty to consider. The Clippers have a solid ATS record, especially at home, while the Nuggets have struggled ATS this season. Both teams have been hitting the over recently, which could influence betting decisions. Here are the top five betting trends for this game:
- The Clippers have a strong home ATS record at 21-7-0.
- The Nuggets have a 3-game winning streak ATS.
- The Clippers are 21-13-0 ATS when favored.
- The Nuggets have hit the over in 49 games this season.
- The Clippers have a 1-game over streak.
Free Betting Prediction for Nuggets vs Clippers
The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers are set for an exciting game. The Nuggets have a strong home record and are favored to win. Nikola Jokić will be key for the Nuggets, with his scoring and playmaking abilities. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. will need to support him with their scoring.
The Clippers have been in good form, winning 9 of their last 10 games. James Harden’s scoring and assists will be important for the Clippers. Ivica Zubac’s rebounding and inside scoring will also play a big role. Norman Powell’s shooting from beyond the arc can impact the game’s outcome.
With both teams having strong players, this game could be close. The Nuggets’ home advantage and Jokić’s performance might give them the edge. However, the Clippers’ recent form and Harden’s playmaking could make it tough for the Nuggets. The game might come down to the final moments.
- Our Free Prediction: Clippers +2.5
