In a decisive Game 7, the Denver Nuggets overwhelmed the LA Clippers with a 120-101 victory, showcasing a well-rounded team effort. Nikola Jokic contributed significantly with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, while Aaron Gordon led the scoring with 22 points. This win marks the Nuggets' advancement to face the Oklahoma City Thunder, who had a first-round sweep. The Clippers, initially playoff favorites, faltered despite their strong regular-season finish, ending their season abruptly in this critical matchup. Denver's resilience stood out, especially after previous playoff setbacks in recent seasons.
The Nuggets blew this one open with a 17-0 run in the third quarter after Leonard started the second half with a 3-pointer to cut L.A.'s deficit to 58-50. Following that, Los Angeles was unable to recover and the Nuggets capitalized on their momentum.
Hanging over the Nuggets all season was their Game 7 fiasco in Round 2 last year when they blew a 20-point second-half lead to the Minnesota Timberwolves just when it looked like they were primed to defend the franchise's first NBA championship.
Jokic had 16 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists, demonstrating just how every player contributed to the team's dominant performance against the Clippers, underscoring their collective strength.
The Clippers' season came to a screeching halt after they'd entered the playoffs as the hottest team in the league, having won 18 of 21, illustrating the unpredictability of playoff success.
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