The Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets faced off in a wildly competitive game two matchup that saw Kawhi Leonard rise to the top and carry the Clippers out as victors.
Kawhi Leonard Drops 39 in Back-and-Forth Contest
Leonard had 39 points on an incredible 15-19 shooting, including four threes. Leonard also had five assists and two steals in his performance. Leonard was responsible for giving the Clippers a three-point lead late in the fourth that ultimately was too much for the Nuggets to overcome.
James Harden was the running mate in this one, contributing 18 points and seven assists, including a monstrous third quarter that kept pace with Denver’s constant scores.
Norman Powell hit a huge three down the stretch. Powell compiled 13 points and two threes that came at the best times possible.
Los Angeles brings the series to their home tied and carries a considerable amount of momentum after stifling Denver on the road.
Nikola Jokic had his 19th postseason triple-double with 26 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Jokic shot the would-be game-tying shot but ended up missing it.
Jamal Murray contributed 23 points and six assists on 9-17 shooting, four of those being threes. Murray hit a couple of big shots to keep things close.
Michael Porter Jr had one of his best postseason games, posting a monstrous 15 points and 15 rebounds performance.
Los Angeles comes out on top with a momentous victory. The Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard, will host Denver for the next two games. Game three will take place on Thursday.
Final Thoughts
This has been a series I wish we could have had later. To know that one of these two teams will be eliminated early on is a little deflating, but we are getting one of the best series these first-round matchups have to offer. Game one going to OT should have been a tell-tale sign that we were in for a great matchup. Leonard came to play and in the end, outpowered Jokic’s triple-double and Murray’s ‘Robin-like’ performance. With this series going to Los Angeles, momentum should take a big swing towards the Clippers’ direction. We are in for a classic, and I’m all eyes and ears come Thursday.
