In a thrilling game on Sunday night, James Harden led the Los Angeles Clippers to a 126-122 victory over the Denver Nuggets, scoring an impressive 39 points and hitting all 13 of his free-throw attempts. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic had a standout performance for the Nuggets, registering a triple-double with 28 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists.
Harden came close to achieving a triple-double as well, contributing nine rebounds and 11 assists to the team’s success. Norman Powell returned to action after a six-game injury absence, adding 28 points that bolstered the Clippers’ efforts.
The game had its tense moments, particularly in the fourth quarter when the Clippers managed to build a seven-point lead, only for the Nuggets to respond, narrowing the gap with key plays from Jokic and Aaron Gordon. Despite a late surge from the Nuggets, including an offensive rebound and put-back by Christian Braun, the Clippers held on for the win.
The Nuggets struggled at the free-throw line, with Jokic missing a crucial attempt late in the game that could have helped narrow the Clippers’ lead. The Clippers excelled in three-point shooting, making 17 from beyond the arc compared to the Nuggets’ 21 attempts.
As the season continues, both teams are gearing up for their upcoming matches, with the Nuggets set to host the Golden State Warriors and the Clippers facing the Portland Trail Blazers in Tuesday’s NBA Cup games.
This game demonstrates the resilience and depth of the Clippers, showcasing how critical players can step up in crucial moments. Harden’s performance not only underscored his scoring ability but also highlighted his importance as a playmaker, and with the return of Powell, the Clippers appear to be well-equipped for the challenges ahead.