Kawhi Leonard Dominates as Clippers Outlast Nuggets to Tie Series in Game 2 Thriller

The Clippers Bounce Back in a Must-Win Showdown

In a high-stakes battle at Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Clippers fought tooth and nail to secure a hard-earned 112-108 victory over the Denver Nuggets, evening the series at 1-1. Kawhi Leonard delivered a vintage performance, reminding the league why he’s still one of the most feared two-way players in the game.

Key Moments That Shaped the Game

• Kawhi’s Heroics: Leonard dropped a game-high 34 points, including a clutch mid-range jumper with 1:12 left to ice the game.
• Defensive Stand: The Clippers locked down Denver’s late surge, forcing two critical turnovers in the final minute.
• Bench Spark: Norman Powell erupted for 18 points off the bench, outscoring Denver’s entire second unit.

What Went Right for the Clippers?

After a sluggish Game 1, the Clippers made crucial adjustments:

1. Containing Jokic: While Nikola Jokic still tallied 26 points, the Clippers limited his playmaking, holding him to just 5 assists.
2. Three-Point Barrage: L.A. shot 42% from deep, with Paul George and Leonard combining for 7 triples.
3. Transition Defense: Denver scored just 8 fast-break points, a drastic drop from their 18 in Game 1.

Can the Nuggets Adjust Before Game 3?

Denver’s supporting cast struggled, with Jamal Murray shooting just 8-of-22. Michael Malone will need to find answers before the series shifts to Denver. The Nuggets’ lack of perimeter defense could be their Achilles' heel if they don’t tighten up.

What Do You Think?

• Is Kawhi Leonard still a top-5 player when healthy?
• Should the Nuggets consider lineup changes, or was this just an off night?
• Are the Clippers legit title contenders, or is this another playoff tease?
• Does Jokic need to be more aggressive, or was the Clippers’ defense that good?