Nuggets rout Clippers 120-101, advance to playoffs against Thunder

The Denver Nuggets dominated the Los Angeles Clippers 120-101 in Game 7, advancing to the second round of the NBA playoffs to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. Unlike last year's playoff disappointment, the Nuggets maintained their lead, at one point up by 35, thanks to strong performances from Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, and Russell Westbrook. Nikola Jokic contributed a near triple-double, but it was the bench's energy and defensive effort—especially Braun's defense on James Harden—that set the tone. The Nuggets' resilience was evident after a tumultuous season marked by coaching changes and late-season struggles, yet they improved defensively and played with renewed focus when it mattered most. The Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard with 22 points, faltered as Harden struggled offensively, and Denver's rebounding and second-chance points widened the gap. Looking ahead, while Oklahoma City is favored, Denver's collective effort and depth could make for a competitive series.