In a thrilling matchup on Wednesday night, Paul George led the Los Angeles Clippers to a 111-102 victory over the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets, breaking an eight-game losing streak against their rivals.
The Nuggets had secured a 113-104 win in their previous encounter just last week in Los Angeles, where Reggie Jackson shone with a 35-point performance in the absence of key players Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon. However, the Nuggets’ trio of starters returned for the rematch.
Jamal Murray contributed 23 points, while Nikola Jokic notched a triple-double with an impressive stat line of 22 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists. Michael Porter Jr. added 18 points and nine rebounds, showcasing his efficiency by making 7 of 8 shots from the field, including four 3-poInters.
This victory marked the Clippers’ first triumph over the Nuggets since January 11, 2022. Despite Denver’s 15-point lead in the opening quarter, they ultimately succumbed to the Clippers’ resurgence, dropping to a 5-8 record on the road. The turning point came when James Harden and Kawhi Leonard combined forces to score 11 consecutive points, propelling the Clippers to a 103-97 lead. Ivica Zubac’s crucial block on Jokic and the Nuggets’ struggles in the fourth quarter sealed the Clippers’ comeback victory.