DENVER — The LA Clippers stumbled in Game 1 of their playoff series against the Denver Nuggets Saturday, losing 112-110 in overtime after holding a significant lead. The loss came despite the Clippers finishing their regular season with strong play, winning 18 of their final 21 games to secure a top-six seed and avoid the Play-In Tournament.
Expectations surrounding this Clippers team grew after navigating a regular season marked by injuries to key players like Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell. Coach Tyronn Lue praised his team's character for pushing through adversity to reach the postseason as the fifth seed. Players acknowledged the value of the playoff opportunity.
James Harden spoke about not taking the chance for granted, focusing on each game and possession. Ivica Zubac, the longest-tenured Clipper, stated this year felt different for him personally compared to past playoff disappointments against the Nuggets.
The Clippers built a 15-point advantage late in the first half, appearing in control of the game. However, the lead evaporated in the second half and overtime. Denver outplayed Los Angeles down the stretch, erasing the deficit.
Turnovers plagued the Clippers throughout the game. They finished with 20 giveaways, leading to easy scoring opportunities for the Nuggets. Kawhi Leonard had a game-high seven turnovers, tying a personal postseason low. One late turnover by Leonard proved costly, leading to a Denver score that gave them the lead in the final minute of regulation.
Denver also dominated the glass, especially on the offensive end, securing 12 offensive rebounds. The Nuggets capitalized on these extra possessions.
Clippers players expressed frustration with their performance after the loss. Harden indicated he needed to review film to understand the reasons for the mistakes, suggesting they were self-inflicted rather than forced by Denver's defense.
Leonard noted the team needed to be more decisive and aggressive offensively. He acknowledged the turnovers were caused by their own errors.
Coach Lue echoed his players' comments, highlighting the need to protect the ball and limit Denver's offensive rebounds in future games. He stated failing to do so against a team proficient in transition offense results in losses.
The defeat marks the fourth straight playoff game the Clippers have lost to the Nuggets after leading by double digits. While the regular season success offered hope, the first playoff game demonstrated the increased demands of the postseason.
