Nuggets vs Clippers NBA Pick: Which Team Moves To The Next Round? (May 3)

• The Denver Nuggets blew an opportunity to close out the series on the road.
• Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers aim to stave off elimination again.
• These squads last played on May 1, with the Clippers claiming a six-point victory

The lone game on Saturday’s NBA slate features the Denver Nuggets hosting the Los Angeles in Game 7 of a first-round Western Conference playoff series. Who has the edge in our Nuggets vs Clippers pick?

Nuggets-Clippers Game 6 Recap

Following a convincing double-digit win in Game 5, the Nuggets looked primed to close out the series. Unfortunately, things did not go according to plan as the Clippers took Game 6 by a 111-105 margin. As a result we now have our first Game 7 of this postseason.

Nikola Jokic spearheaded an offense in which four starters registered double-digit scoring totals. He finished with 25 points, eight assists, seven rebounds, and three steals in 42 minutes of action. It is because of these well-rounded performances that keep him in the MVP conversation each season.

Following a 43-point explosion in Game 5, Jamal Murray scored 21 points along with eight rebounds and eight assists. Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun contributed 19 and 14 points, respectively.

On the other side of the matchup, the Clippers’ offense was equally balanced. James Harden led the way with 28 points, eight dimes, and six boards.

Kahwi Leonard logged 27 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists. Normal Powell added 24 points on 9-for-15 shooting from the field.

Los Angeles held a 15-point lead at the midway point in the final frame before Denver used an 11-2 burst to trim the deficit to 107-101. But thanks to a huge 3-pointer from Powell and good defense down the stretch, the Clippers kept their postseason hopes alive.

Nuggets vs Clippers Pick: Who Comes Out On Top In Game 7 Of This First-Round Matchup?

Despite losing Game 6, Denver enters this matchup as a slim 1.5-point favorite according to BetOnline. Here’s a glance at a few notable betting trends for both sides.

• The Nuggets are 9-2 straight-up (SU) in their last 11 home games against the Clippers.
• Denver is 3-14 against the spread in its previous 17 home contests.
• The Clippers are 10-3 in their last 13 matchups against Western Conference opponents.
• Los Angeles is 9-2 ATS in its previous 11 road outings..

The Nuggets are 2-1 in Game 7s while the Clippers are 4-1 in first-round Game 7s, which means the contest can go either way. Look for Denver to advance in a game that will more than likely come down to the final possession.