LA Clippers vs Denver Nuggets Prediction April 29, 2025 NBA Picks
The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers are set to clash in a pivotal Game 5 of their first-round NBA playoff series on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Ball Arena in Denver. With the series tied at 2-2, both teams aim to seize control and move one step closer to advancing in the postseason.
Series Overview
The series has been a rollercoaster, featuring tight contests and dramatic finishes. Game 4 epitomized the intensity, with Denver's Aaron Gordon delivering a buzzer-beating dunk to secure a 101-99 victory, evening the series. The Nuggets' resilience was on full display, especially considering the absence of key players. Interim head coach David Adelman has managed to keep the team competitive following the late-season departure of Michael Malone.
The Clippers, under the leadership of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, have showcased their offensive prowess, particularly in their dominant 117-83 Game 3 win. However, inconsistency has plagued them, and they'll need to maintain focus to regain the series lead.
Injury Reports
Denver Nuggets:
Russell Westbrook (PG): Questionable with left foot inflammation. Westbrook missed Game 4 due to this injury, and his availability for Game 5 remains uncertain.
Michael Porter Jr. (SF): Questionable with a right ankle sprain. Porter's status is day-to-day, and his presence would provide a significant boost to Denver's wing depth.
DaRon Holmes II (C): Out for the season due to a left knee injury.
Los Angeles Clippers:
The Clippers enter Game 5 with a clean bill of health, a notable advantage at this critical juncture of the series.
Key Matchups
Kawhi Leonard vs. Denver's Defense:
Leonard has been the linchpin for the Clippers, averaging 26.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game in the series. His ability to create shots and defend multiple positions makes him a constant threat. Denver's defense will need to strategize effectively to contain his impact.
Nikola Jokic vs. Ivica Zubac:
Jokic continues to be the engine for the Nuggets, orchestrating the offense with his playmaking and scoring. Zubac's defensive responsibilities will be crucial in limiting Jokic's influence in the paint and on the boards.
Bench Contributions:
The performance of role players like Norman Powell for the Clippers and Aaron Gordon for the Nuggets could tip the scales. Powell's scoring off the bench has been vital, while Gordon's athleticism and defensive versatility provide Denver with an edge.
Statistical Comparison
Los Angeles Clippers:
Regular Season Record: 50-32
Points Per Game: 107.8
Points Allowed Per Game: 99.5
Field Goal Percentage: 47.7%
Three-Point Percentage: 39%
Free Throw Percentage: 72.2%
Denver Nuggets:
Regular Season Record: 50-32
Points Per Game: 119.8
Points Allowed Per Game: 113.1
Field Goal Percentage: 50.3%
Three-Point Percentage: 37.5%
Game 5 Prediction
The Nuggets have demonstrated resilience, especially in their Game 4 victory without key players. However, the Clippers' depth and health give them a slight edge. If Westbrook and Porter Jr. are unavailable, Denver's rotation could be stretched thin.
Predicted Score: Clippers 108, Nuggets 104
How to Watch
Date: Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Time: 10:00 PM ET
Location: Ball Arena, Denver, CO
TV: TNT, ALT, FDSSC
Game 5 promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for supremacy in this tightly contested series. The outcome will hinge on star performances, strategic adjustments, and the health of key players. Fans can anticipate a high-stakes battle that could define the trajectory of the series.
