Clippers Force Game 7 Against Nuggets After 111-105 Victory

The Los Angeles Clippers forced a decisive Game 7 in their first-round NBA playoff series against the Denver Nuggets with a 111-105 victory, propelled by strong performances from James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Norman Powell. Harden delivered 28 points and eight assists, rebounding from a previous quiet game, while Leonard contributed 27 points and 10 rebounds. Powell added a crucial 24 points, helping the Clippers recover from back-to-back losses and overcome a late-game surge by the Nuggets. Coach Tyronn Lue made strategic adjustments, including a key halftime lineup change and personally checking in with players to ensure mental readiness before the elimination game. The Clippers' defense limited Nikola Jokic to 25 points after a strong first half, and Denver's attempts to close the gap late in the fourth quarter fell short. The winner of Game 7 will advance to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.