Nuggets Defeat Clippers 112-110 in Thrilling Game 1 Overtime Showdown

DENVER, Colo. — The Denver Nuggets emerged victorious in a nail-biting Game 1 of their playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers, winning 112-110 in overtime on Saturday. The game showcased Nikola Jokic‘s prowess and Russell Westbrook‘s defensive instincts, highlighting the competitive nature of the matchup.

The Nuggets fell behind by as many as 15 points early in the game, but a series of strategic plays, including a critical steal by Westbrook in the closing moments, allowed them to claw back into contention. Jokic finished with 29 points, nine rebounds, and 12 assists, demonstrating his significance to the Nuggets’ offensive strategy.

“Defensively, he was absolutely incredible,” interim coach David Adelman said about Westbrook’s influence on the game. “He was playing free safety out there,” a role that proved vital in disrupting the Clippers’ offensive rhythm late in the game.

Westbrook also contributed offensively, sinking a key three-pointer that momentarily gave the Nuggets a lead. Despite shooting 5 of 17, his overall impact was felt throughout the game, particularly as he secured several crucial offensive rebounds.

Jamal Murray also stepped up for Denver, scoring 21 points and contributing in key moments, despite some struggles with his shooting percentage. Murray acknowledged Westbrook’s contributions, emphasizing his all-around impact, “He makes a lot of winning plays, stuff that doesn’t show up in the stat sheet.”

Clippers star James Harden led his team with 32 points and 11 assists, while Ivica Zubac contributed a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds. The back-and-forth battle culminated in a tense overtime, where Denver’s defense ultimately sealed the win.

In the overtime period, Denver’s defense clamped down, allowing the Clippers only 12 points. “We just flew around. Their intensity was better than ours early in the game,” Adelman said, reflecting on his team’s adjustments after a shaky first quarter where they allowed 35 points.

Michael Porter Jr. had a lackluster game, finishing with just three points after an early three-pointer. His limited contributions raised questions about his role moving forward in the series, with Adelman stating, “If Mike comes out, and he plays, and he’s engaged defensively, he’s knocking down shots — Michael will be out there, just like everybody else.”

The win puts the Nuggets ahead in their first-round series, signaling a promising start for the team under Adelman, who has taken over as interim coach following the recent dismissal of Michael Malone. The kiss of playoff basketball is in the air, and with intense matchups anticipated, both teams must now recalibrate for Game 2.