In a crucial Game 3 of the 2025 NBA playoffs, the Los Angeles Clippers (No. 5 seed) host the Denver Nuggets (No. 4 seed) after a hard-fought series so far. The Nuggets edged out the Clippers in a thrilling Game 1, winning 112-110 in overtime, but Los Angeles bounced back with a 105-102 victory in Game 2, regaining home-court advantage. Kawhi Leonard was the standout in Game 2 with an impressive 39 points, while Nikola Jokic continued to shine for Denver, recording a triple-double with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. The series now shifts to the Intuit Dome, where the Clippers are favored by 5 points, and the over/under is set at 214.5 points.

The Brooklyn Nets have a storied history with jersey numbers, having seen 52 different numbers worn by over 600 players since their inception in 1967 as the New Jersey Americans. Among these, jersey No. 13 is particularly notable, having been worn by 18 players, including the renowned James Harden.

Harden joined the Nets in 2021 after stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets, playing a crucial role for the team during his time there. In his brief period with the franchise, he averaged 23.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per game while donning the iconic No. 13 jersey. His contributions to the team encapsulate a rich era for the Nets, creating a lasting legacy with the number.

Norman Powell stepped up in Game 2 of the playoffs, defying his earlier struggles to contribute significantly when it mattered most. Despite a shaky start, he scored 7 of his 13 points in the decisive fourth quarter, ultimately helping the Clippers secure a 105-102 victory over the Denver Nuggets. Powell's perseverance, bolstered by encouragement from teammates and coaches, highlights his commitment to finding his rhythm in high-pressure moments. Coach Tyronn Lue expressed confidence in Powell's ability, emphasizing the importance of trust and teamwork.

This playoff series is pivotal for Powell, who previously averaged a career-high 21.8 points during the regular season. As the Clippers prepare for their first playoff game at the Intuit Dome, Powell's ability to deliver in crunch time will be essential for the team's success against a formidable opponent like Denver.

Kawhi Leonard's journey back to health has been a story of resilience and determination, highlighted by his outstanding performance against the Denver Nuggets in Game 2 of the Western Conference playoffs. Scoring 39 points and shooting effectively, Leonard's work ethic has not gone unnoticed by teammates like James Harden, who emphasize his daily commitment to rehabilitation and preparation. Despite battling injuries—including missing the first 34 games of the season—Leonard's dedication shines through as he returns to the court healthy, eager to contribute to his team's playoff push.

This season, Leonard's physical struggles have often overshadowed his immense talent. Harden points out that the negative narrative surrounding Leonard's injuries fails to recognize his greatness when he's performing at peak efficiency. As he continues to regain his form, Leonard's focus is on being present for his teammates in crucial playoff moments, showcasing that his love for the game drives him to push through adversity.

The NBA playoffs are where legends are made, and this year, several star players are under pressure to elevate their game and finally capture a championship. Luka Doncic, now with the Los Angeles Lakers, has had a strong start but struggled in the Finals last season. James Harden, playing for the LA Clippers, faces scrutiny for his playoff performances despite being a perennial All-Star. Donovan Mitchell has been a standout for the Cleveland Cavaliers but has yet to push past the second round. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is entering a pivotal phase after a stellar season with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Meanwhile, Jalen Brunson continues to be the face of the New York Knicks' resurgence but must lead them deeper into the playoffs. Finally, Jimmy Butler, now with the Golden State Warriors, must prove his worth in a city known for its championship pedigree.