In a thrilling Game 1 of the playoffs, the Denver Nuggets pulled off a narrow 112-110 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Clippers, showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity. The Clippers initially stormed ahead, leading by 15 points in the first half with James Harden and Ivica Zubac making significant contributions. However, the Nuggets battled back, cutting the deficit with a 13-2 run to close the half. Russell Westbrook emerged as a key player, making several clutch shots that ultimately led to Denver's win.

Nikola Jokić led the Nuggets with 29 points, including crucial free throws in overtime, while Jamal Murray contributed 21 points, bouncing back from injury concerns. Westbrook's presence off the bench was pivotal, as he managed to impact the game significantly despite a rough shooting night. The Nuggets’ strong performance under interim coach David Adelman signals their determination to repeat as champions, especially after a tumultuous end to the regular season. They now hold a 1-0 lead in the series.

The Clippers are bracing themselves for a challenging playoff series against the Denver Nuggets, where they will face the unpredictable and exceptional center Nikola Jokic. Jokic, a three-time MVP, averaged an astonishing triple-double this season, putting up 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists. This playoff series will be pivotal for the Clippers as they strategize around Jokic's multi-faceted game, relying on Ivica Zubac's size and strength to counter him.

Clippers' coach Tyronn Lue has indicated that the team will employ a variety of defensive strategies to contain Jokic, including double-teaming and different defensive schemes. The Clippers, who boast one of the league’s best defenses, are riding a hot streak entering the playoffs, having won 18 of their last 21 games. With key players like Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Norman Powell stepping up, they aim to neutralize Jokic's dominant presence.

In the upcoming playoff series, the Los Angeles Clippers face a formidable challenge against the Denver Nuggets, primarily due to the presence of Nikola Jokic. The three-time MVP, Jokic is a basketball genius, boasting a historic triple-double average this season. The Clippers, known for their robust defense, will rely on Ivica Zubac to match up against the 6-foot-11, 284-pound center. Zubac acknowledges the difficulty of defending Jokic, emphasizing the need for varied defensive strategies.

Clippers coach Tyronn Lue anticipates employing multiple coverage styles against Jokic, including double-teams and blitzes. The Clippers finished the regular season strong, winning 18 of their last 21 games, and have a solid defensive rating, which could play a crucial role in their strategy against a Nuggets team that has proven dangerous. With key players like Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Norman Powell contributing offensively, the Clippers aim to strike a balance between defense and offense to capitalize on their strengths during the series.

The Los Angeles Clippers enter the playoffs riding an impressive eight-game winning streak, securing the fifth seed in the Western Conference and setting the stage for a challenging matchup against the defending champion Denver Nuggets. The Clippers boast significant size with Ivica Zubac, who will face off against the formidable Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP. With a fully healthy Kawhi Leonard leading a trio of scoring threats that includes James Harden and Norman Powell, the Clippers are primed for a deep playoff run.

The Nuggets, meanwhile, have recovered from a mid-season slump that resulted in the firing of head coach Michael Malone. Under interim coach Dave Adelman, they've won their last three games, positioning themselves as the fourth seed. This series promises to be a tactical battle between two well-matched teams, with both scouts indicating that while the Clippers appear to be in better form, the Nuggets have the talent advantage on paper.