Clippers Aim for Upset Against Nuggets in Crucial Playoff Opener

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — The Los Angeles Clippers are ready to face off against the Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs on Saturday, April 19, 2025. After a season marred by injuries, the Clippers will finally showcase a healthy Kawhi Leonard and a competitive roster, determined to make a deep playoff run.

Kawhi Leonard, a two-time Finals MVP, is expected to play a critical role after recovering from knee injuries that sidelined him for significant stretches over the past two seasons. He has returned to form just in time for the postseason, boasting a sharp performance in the Clippers’ regular-season finale, where he scored 33 points against the Golden State Warriors.

“I’m just happy that I was able to get here,” Leonard said. “My teammates did a great job down that last stretch.” Leonard’s presence has proven valuable for a Clippers team that has transformed since his return, winning 18 of their last 21 games and leading the league in offensive efficiency during that span.

The Clippers’ head coach Tyronn Lue praised Leonard’s dedication and resilience, emphasizing the importance of his performance for the team. “It feels good for us, and him playing at a high level helps our team out tremendously,” Lue stated. “I’m happy for him for all the hard work he’s put in to get to this point.”

Leonard’s pivotal role is further underscored by the absence of Nicolas Batum, who has missed the last two games due to a groin injury. However, Lue noted that Batum participated fully in practice, hinting at a potential return that could bolster the team’s small ball strategy.

The matchup against the Nuggets promises to be fiercely contested. Both teams finished the regular season with a 50-32 record and tied 2-2 in their regular-season series. Historically, the Clippers have held an advantage in postseason encounters, winning seven of their 12 playoff meetings against Denver.

On the other side of the court, the Nuggets are eager to leverage their strengths with star players Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray leading the charge. Murray, once plagued by injuries, is ready to take on the Clippers alongside reigning MVP Jokic.

The Nuggets currently have only one player on the injury report, DaRon Holmes II, who will miss the season due to an Achilles injury. This gives Denver a distinct edge in maintaining continuity heading into the playoffs.

While the Clippers’ playoff history against the Nuggets has seen ups and downs, the trajectory this season favors L.A. as they enter the playoffs as the league’s hottest team after a stellar finish to the regular season. Leonard’s performance will be key as the Clippers aim to ride the momentum of their winning streak into the postseason.

Game 1 is set for Saturday, April 19, at 3:30 p.m. ET at Ball Arena in Denver. Local broadcasts will be available on ESPN, and the game will also stream live via Fubo.