The series between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Denver Nuggets took a decisive turn as the Clippers cruised to a dominant 117-83 win in Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs. After two closely contested matchups in Denver, James Harden’s leadership and the team’s relentless mindset gave them the edge. “The Beard” emphasized that the team’s “killer mentality” made all the difference.
The Nuggets narrowly took Game 1 with a 112-110 victory, while the Clippers bounced back in Game 2 to even the series at 1-1 with a 105-103 win. However, Game 3 marked a dramatic shift, as the Clippers controlled the tempo and left Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets with few answers.
Harden led the charge early, scoring all 20 of his points in the first half, setting the tone for his teammates. Kawhi Leonard, Ivica Zubac, Norman Powell, Nicolas Batum, and Derrick Jones Jr. also contributed in double digits. After the game, Harden reflected on the team effort and the mentality that fueled their home-court dominance.
“Tonight, there’s contribution from everybody. Everybody made shots, and we played well. We played as a team,” Harden told Taylor Rooks on NBA TV. “We were getting shots and opportunities in our first two games that just didn’t go in. Tonight they went in force. Killer mentality. Protect home court”.
James Harden #1 reacts alongside Ivica Zubac #40 of the Los Angeles Clippers against the Denver Nuggets during Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Rebounding battle sealed the deal
The Clippers also won the rebounding battle, outpacing the Nuggets 48-38. Despite Nikola Jokic posting an impressive triple-double with 23 points, 13 rebounds, and 13 assists, Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 11 boards, anchoring their defensive effort.
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“The first two games we played pretty good defense,” Harden said. “Tonight, we rebounded at a high level and took care of the ball. With that combination, we got a chance”.
Charles Barkley’s bold prediction
After the resounding Game 3 victory, NBA Hall of Famer and TNT analyst Charles Barkley declared his stance on the series. “I think this series is over,” Barkley said during the NBA on TNT broadcast.
The Nuggets now face a steep uphill battle as they prepare for Game 4 on Saturday, April 26. Another loss would put Denver on the brink of elimination in the opening round of the playoffs.
