The Los Angeles Clippers edged out the Denver Nuggets in a thrilling matchup on Thursday at the Intuit Dome, winning 115-114. This closely contested game showcased intense competition from both teams as they emerged from the All-Star break.
Game Highlights
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets despite facing early foul trouble. He scored 22 points, including 16 in the second half. Jokic struggled with his shooting, making 9 of 22 attempts. His three-point shooting was particularly poor, finishing 0 for 6. Nevertheless, he excelled on the boards, grabbing 17 rebounds and providing six assists, although he also recorded six turnovers.
Clippers Rise in Standings
The victory improved the Clippers’ record to 27-28 in the 2025-26 NBA regular season, while the loss dropped the Nuggets to 35-21.
Physical Play and Key Contributions
- The game saw a heated exchange between Jonas Valanciunas of the Nuggets and Clippers rookie Yanic Konan Niederhauser.
- Valanciunas is a veteran who contributed six points, four rebounds, and two steals in 12 minutes.
- Niederhauser, in his appearance, tallied four points, four rebounds, and one assist in 13 minutes of play.
- French forward Nicolas Batum also played a role for the Clippers, scoring six points and grabbing two rebounds in 18 minutes.
- Bogdan Bogdanovic, another key player, did not see any game action.
As both teams aim for momentum going forward, this thrilling encounter exemplified the grit and determination prevalent in the NBA.
