It’s Game 2 at Ball Arena tonight—Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets are on a mission to take a commanding 2-0 series lead. Despite a shaky win in Game 1, they’re primed to prove they’re the deeper, more consistent team. Los Angeles has the talent, with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden facing off against a Jokic-led squad, but will the Clippers have enough to pull off the upset and send this series even? Below, I’ve got my preview, prediction, and best bet for tonight’s NBA clash in the West between the Nuggets and the Clippers.
Here’s how I’ll play it. I’ll be pumping out these predictions for individual games all season, with plenty of coverage here on DraftKings Network. Follow my handle @dansby_edits for more betting plays.
Nuggets vs. Clippers prediction, preview
The Denver Nuggets head into Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers with a slight edge, securing a 112-110 overtime win in Game 1. Despite Denver’s victory, the Clippers were the more dominant team for much of the contest, especially in the first three quarters, and they should be itching to bounce back in this one. Nikola Jokic remains the focal point of Denver’s offense, contributing 29 points, 12 assists, and nine rebounds in Game 1, but he’ll need more support from his teammates, particularly Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon. Murray (21 points, nine rebounds, seven assists in Game 1) has shown he’s up for the challenge, but his recent hamstring issues leave room for concern in this matchup against the Clippers’ defensive schemes.
Los Angeles, on the other hand, saw James Harden dominate, finishing with 32 points and 11 assists, while Ivica Zubac added 21 points and 13 rebounds. Kawhi Leonard, though not at his peak, contributed 22 points, and with Harden’s playmaking and Leonard’s two-way impact, the Clippers’ offense is in capable hands. However, the Clippers have consistently struggled in Game 2s, losing five consecutive times in such scenarios. Additionally, Denver has been a tough out at home, where they’ve won their last eight consecutive first-round playoff games at Ball Arena. This could be the perfect storm for a Clippers’ slip-up, especially considering their inability to close out Game 1 effectively, despite Harden’s heroics.
One of the key matchups will undoubtedly be Zubac vs. Jokic, with Zubac’s physicality and size providing Denver’s reigning MVP with significant challenges. Jokic will need to adapt, as Zubac gave him fits in Game 1. But given the Nuggets’ top-ranked offense (120.8 PPG) and their ability to generate 31.0 assists per game, they have the tools to stretch out the Clippers’ defense. The Clippers’ third-ranked defense, though strong, faces its toughest test here against a team with such offensive firepower and a premier playmaker like Jokic.
Clippers vs. Nuggets pick, best bet
One of the key matchups will undoubtedly be Zubac vs. Jokic, with Zubac’s physicality and size providing Denver’s reigning MVP with significant challenges. Jokic will need to adapt, as Zubac gave him fits in Game 1. But given the Nuggets’ top-ranked offense (120.8 PPG) and their ability to generate 31.0 assists per game, they have the tools to stretch out the Clippers’ defense. The Clippers’ third-ranked defense, though strong, faces its toughest test here against a team with such offensive firepower and a premier playmaker like Jokic.
The trends favor the Nuggets at home, despite the Clippers’ superior recent form (they’ve won eight of their last 10). Denver’s offense, led by Jokic’s versatility, should be able to carry them through, especially with Westbrook’s timely plays from Game 1 serving as a catalyst for clutch moments. Look for a more assertive performance from Murray, who needs to shake off any lingering rust from his injury.
However, make no mistake—Game 2 is a fulcrum for the Clippers, teetering on the edge of playoff salvation. Desperate not to go down 2-0, they know the pressure is mounting. This flash-in-the-pan scorch from Los Angeles could be a flamethrown thing with a short, defined arc. Alternatively? They could have found just what they needed to keep a perfect simmer deep into the NBA playoffs.
I just think Denver will be a bucket of water too much tonight. Five straight game two losses for the Clippers (aforementioned)!
Best bet: Nuggets +1 (-110) vs. Clippers
Tail the Nuggets to go up 2-0 in the series with me in the DKN betting group here!
