Alright, strap in, because the Clippers are facing the ultimate do-or-die scenario in Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets tonight. It’s been a series full of drama, clutch moments, and, of course, plenty of “I can’t believe I just saw that” moments. After fighting tooth and nail for six games, they’re down to the final one, and the big question everyone’s asking is—will Kawhi Leonard actually show up tonight?

Yes. Yes, he is. No injury designation, no mysterious “knee management.” He’s playing. He has to. This isn’t November. This is Game 7—either he suits up or he starts summer early. He even said it himself after Game 6: “I’ve been on the sidelines the last couple of years in the playoffs. So I don’t take it for granted. I just try to cherish every moment and thank God that I’m able to play.” Translation: he’s locked in.

That’s as close to a Kawhi emotional monologue as we’re gonna get. As for the other team members. Paul George? Still ghosting the playoffs… His knee rehab is stretching longer than a Marvel phase. The rest of the crew? Surprisingly intact. Harden’s upright, Norm Powell’s either a spark plug or a paperweight (depending on the quarter), and Zubac continues to quietly absorb Jokic’s elbows like a champ.

Honestly, the medical team deserves a bonus. This is the healthiest the Clippers have looked in May since… ever?

L.A. Clippers Depth Chart Denver Nuggets

Let’s break it down. Here’s the full-blown chaos organized into something that looks like a depth chart.

Yeah, it’s a weird blend of combo guards, makeshift wings, and small-ball centers. But hey, Ty Lue’s made it work before. Just don’t ask him for a “normal” rotation.

The Clippers narrowly defeated the Nuggets in Game 6, relying on strong performances from James Harden (27 points), Kawhi Leonard (10 rebounds), and Norman Powell (24 points on 60% shooting). Ivica Zubac played solid defense on Nikola Jokić, limiting his impact. LA also dominated the free-throw line (86.7% vs. 66.7%) and racked up 9 steals and blocks, translating into a +6 turnover differential. However, their three-point shooting was a struggle at just 30.8%, and bench contributions were limited, with only Nicolas Batum and Derrick Jones Jr. providing impact.

Denver shot more efficiently (52.4% from the field, 40.7% from three) and had more assists (24 to 23) and rebounds (39 to 35). However, sloppy ball-handling and transition defense hurt them, with Michael Porter Jr. posting a concerning -24 plus-minus in just 24 minutes. The Clippers capitalized on these mistakes for the win.

This is it, Clippers fans. No more “if PG was healthy,” no more “next year’s our year.” Kawhi is playing. Harden’s hot. The depth chart is duct-taped together, but the vibes are alive. One more win punches their ticket to face OKC. One loss? It’s back to meme status. No Pressure.