The first-round playoff matchup between the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Clippers has proved to be a rollercoaster, with both teams trading wins in the opening games. Following a thrilling overtime victory by the Nuggets in Game 1 and a narrow win by the Clippers in Game 2, hopes were high for an exciting Game 3.

However, the Clippers delivered a crushing blowout, defeating the Nuggets 117-83. Despite Nikola Jokic's impressive triple-double performance with 23 points, 13 rebounds, and 13 assists, it was evident that frustration was mounting within the Nuggets' camp, highlighted by Jokic's visible anger during a timeout. This loss leaves the Nuggets facing potential elimination, making Game 4 a crucial must-win scenario.

The NBA's end-of-year awards have sparked intense debate, particularly with the MVP race between Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as well as Draymond Green's late push for Defensive Player of the Year. Despite the Chicago Bulls' lack of representation, Matas Buzelis earned recognition for his quality rookie season, averaging 8.6 points and 3.5 rebounds. Jokić's triple-double average solidified his MVP win, while Dyson Daniels claimed Defensive Player of the Year. Ivica Zubac and Payton Pritchard were recognized for Most Improved Player and Sixth Man, respectively. Jalen Brunson took home Clutch Player of the Year, and Kenny Atkinson was named Coach of the Year for leading the Cavaliers to the top of the East.

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 NBA playoff slate on April 24, 2025, features critical matchups with teams tied at 1-1: the New York Knicks against the Detroit Pistons and the Los Angeles Clippers facing the Denver Nuggets. Key player Michael Porter Jr. is questionable, impacting the lineups. Nikola Jokic stands out as a core pick, boasting elite production—averaging 67 and 56 fantasy points in the first two playoff games. With high usage and minutes, he poses a significant threat against the Clippers' defense that has struggled against forwards. Kawhi Leonard also shines after a stellar Game 2, and Tobias Harris offers value as he steps up for Detroit.