The Los Angeles Clippers enter Game 2 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets looking to bounce back from a narrow 112–110 overtime loss in Game 1—a contest that showcased their defensive intensity, physicality, and playoff-tested poise but ultimately exposed critical late-game execution flaws. Kawhi Leonard led the way with 28 points and 9 rebounds, but his uncharacteristic 7 turnovers loomed large, particularly in crunch time where decision-making and ball security are non-negotiable. Despite the result, the Clippers’ performance gave them reasons for optimism, as they held the lead late in regulation, executed a defensive game plan that largely kept Denver’s shooters in check, and saw Ivica Zubac battle Nikola Jokić effectively in the paint. Zubac’s ability to stay vertical, protect the rim, and rebound through contact allowed L.A. to keep the rebounding battle close, while Terance Mann, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook each had moments of impact on both ends. However, 20 team turnovers and some stagnant offensive possessions down the stretch prevented them from closing the door on a potential road upset. Head coach Tyronn Lue will now challenge his team to stay sharp, clean up careless mistakes, and bring the same physical edge into Game 2—but with better control and execution under pressure. Offensively, the Clippers will need more from Paul George, who was unusually quiet in Game 1, particularly late in the fourth quarter and into overtime when his scoring and perimeter shot-making were needed most. George’s ability to create off the dribble and knock down contested jumpers can alleviate some of the pressure on Leonard, who faced double-teams and constant hedging from Denver’s defense. Expect Lue to design early sets to get George going, whether through pin-down actions, pick-and-roll mismatches, or spot-up opportunities in the corner.

Meanwhile, Harden and Westbrook will need to manage the game with composure, balancing their roles as secondary scorers with the need to facilitate ball movement and keep the offense from stagnating. The Clippers’ bench remains one of the deeper units in the playoffs, and continued contributions from Norman Powell and Mason Plumlee could be critical, especially if they can outplay Denver’s second unit and win those middle-of-the-quarter stretches when the starters rest. Defensively, the Clippers were effective in forcing Denver into tough looks and limiting second-chance points, but they’ll need to stay out of foul trouble and sharpen their closeouts to keep the Nuggets’ rhythm disrupted. The mission for Los Angeles in Game 2 is simple: maintain the defensive intensity that gave them control for much of Game 1, but eliminate the self-inflicted wounds that cost them the game. With a 19–22 ATS record on the road this season, the Clippers know they must play nearly flawless basketball to pull off a win in the altitude of Ball Arena. But with playoff-tested stars, a versatile and experienced supporting cast, and the tactical acumen of Ty Lue, this team is built for adjustments and responses. Game 2 is as much about mental resilience as it is tactical execution; a win sends the series back to Los Angeles tied and full of momentum, while a loss would mean falling into a dangerous 0–2 hole against the reigning champions. Expect the Clippers to come out with urgency, intensity, and a heightened focus on taking care of the ball and executing in the clutch—because their path to advancement starts with stealing one on the road, and Game 2 is their best shot.