The Los Angeles Clippers return home for Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets with renewed purpose and momentum after securing a crucial Game 2 victory on the road, tying the series at 1-1 and setting the stage for what is shaping up to be one of the postseason’s most tightly contested matchups. Playing at the Intuit Dome—a venue where they’ve been particularly dominant all season—the Clippers are poised to leverage their home-court advantage in a game that could swing the balance of the series. Game 2 was a showcase of Kawhi Leonard’s elite playoff form, as he poured in 39 points with a blend of mid-range mastery, post strength, and surgical efficiency that reminded everyone why he’s one of the most feared postseason performers in the league. His two-way impact was palpable, not only carrying the offense but also locking in defensively on key possessions to slow Denver’s rhythm. James Harden played a pivotal complementary role, facilitating ball movement, orchestrating pick-and-rolls, and punishing the Nuggets with well-timed threes and foul-drawing savvy. The Clippers’ success was also grounded in their ability to get meaningful contributions from Ivica Zubac, who controlled the boards and challenged Nikola Jokić in the paint, and from Terance Mann and Norman Powell, whose defensive hustle and perimeter shooting helped keep Denver’s role players in check. Coach Tyronn Lue deserves significant credit for his Game 2 adjustments—tightening rotations, increasing ball pressure, and tweaking the defensive matchups that had allowed Jokić to dominate in Game 1.

Lue’s flexibility and trust in his veteran-heavy roster give the Clippers a tactical edge, particularly in late-game situations where execution and discipline matter most. Heading into Game 3, Los Angeles must maintain its physicality on defense and continue forcing the Nuggets into contested perimeter looks, while controlling pace to limit Denver’s transition opportunities. Offensive rebounding and second-chance points could be a deciding factor as well, and Zubac’s presence, paired with the activity of players like Westbrook off the bench, will be critical in maintaining interior dominance. With the series now tied and the crowd behind them, the Clippers have an opportunity to not just take the lead but to put real pressure on a Nuggets team that has looked vulnerable under sustained physicality. Health remains a key variable—if Leonard and Harden can stay on the floor and maintain their current form, the Clippers possess one of the most dangerous offensive tandems in the league. This is a veteran team with a chip on its shoulder, playoff scars from past disappointments, and a sense of urgency that’s palpable with every possession. Game 3 is a chance for Los Angeles to plant its flag, protect home court, and prove that this year’s version of the Clippers is more resilient, more connected, and more prepared to challenge the league’s elite. The formula that worked in Game 2—defensive intensity, star power, and unselfish execution—will need to be replicated and even elevated to hold off the reigning champions and seize control of this captivating series.