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NBA: Nuggets defend home court and schedule MVP showdown in the semis
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 04.05.25. | 10:40
Clippers didn't stand a chance in Game 7 against soaring Denver, which will face Oklahoma in the Western Conference semi-finals, as the two leading MVP candidates, Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, will lock horns
The wildest NBA playoff series (in prospect) of the first round has definitely met expectations, as the clash between Denver and the LA Clippers had to be decided in Game 7. In the end, the home-court advantage provided an edge to the Nuggets, who knocked out the California crew, beating the visitors in Ball Arena 120-101.
After losing the opening quarter 26-21, the home team won the following two periods by 32 points (?!), sealing the deal long before the end of the game. The Nuggets' best player, Nikola Jokic, was below his usual level with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, but the Serb had massive help from his teammates.
Aaron Gordon (22), Christian Braun (21), Jamal Murray (16), Russell Westbrook (16), and Michael Porter Jr. (15) all put in double-digit performances, as Denver triumphed thanks to a team basketball.
On the other hand, Kawhi Leonard was the most efficient player for the Clippers, with 22 points, while the rest of Tyronn Lue's crew was subpar.
In the Western Conference semi-finals, the Nuggets will face the Oklahoma City Thunder, as that clash will bring the duel between the leading two MVP candidates - Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The opening game of that series is scheduled for Tuesday (04.30).
NBA PLAYOFFS
Western Conference - First round
Sunday
Denver Nuggets - Los Angeles Clippers 120-101
/Gordon 22 - Leonard 22/
Denver win the series 4-3
Monday
03:30: (1.80) Houston (12.5) Golden State (2.25)
Series tied 3-3
Eastern Conference - Semi-finals
Monday
00:55: (1.35) Cleveland (14.0) Indiana (3.70)
Series tied 0-0
***odds are subject to change***
