Following an exhausting road stretch, the Denver Nuggets are gearing up for another one after they host the Houston Rockets. However, their today’s challenge was a face-off against the Los Angeles Clippers. The already short-handed Nuggets took the court without Nikola Jokic; initially listed as questionable before being sidelined due to back problems. On the other hand, Paul George and the Clippers boasted their star-studded lineup, healthy and ready to play.

Despite missing three key players, Denver showcased resilience right from the opening minutes of the game. Surprisingly, they even secured a halftime lead of 58-56; thanks to Reggie Jackson sinking two free throws with less than a second left on the buzzer.

1. Nuggets have depth beyond imagination

Recently, head coach Mike Malone expressed dissatisfaction with the bench’s performance at the end of a tough road trip. Despite the lashing, it served as a wake-up call for the entire bench; prompting a resurgence in their prowess. First, they put in a gritty effort against Wembanyama. Furthermore, the Nuggets’ bench continued their impress against the Clippers.

First and foremost, De’Andre Jordan was tasked with stepping into Nikola Jokic‘s shoes; and he rose to the occasion remarkably. It marked just his second game of the season and first start. However, it did not feel like it, as Jordan delivered an outstanding performance; scoring 21 points, dishing out 5 assists, and grabbing 13 rebounds.

Trending

What Happened to Kenny Smith’s Legs? Unfolding the Sad Truth Behind TNT Host’s Dodgy Knees

April 22, 2024 08:05 PM EDT

“Kissing & Hugging Too Much”: Charles Barkley Claims Michael Jordan Had No Friends, Warns Anthony Edwards of Tough Future

April 30, 2024 07:00 AM EDT

Shaquille O’Neal’s Ex-Wife Shaunie and More Shower 18YO Daughter With Heartfelt Birthday Tribute

May 02, 2024 07:37 AM EDT

Why Isn’t Giannis Antetokounmpo Playing Tonight? Doc Rivers’ Pre-Game Insights Hints At 2x MVP’s Return

May 03, 2024 01:11 AM EDT

Bronny in Deep Waters as $800,000 Suffering Forces LeBron James’ Son to End College Career With Major Declining Numbers

April 27, 2024 01:45 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Furthermore, Reggie Jackson has been taking on the role of Jamal Murray in his absence. Regardless, Reggie Vision was on full display throughout the game. He took charge of the team and finished the game with a high score of 35 points and 14 assists. Additionally, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Justin Holiday also stepped up to the call. Both contributed 12 points each, further fueling the Nuggets’ resurgence.

2. Paul George failed to deliver, again

After the addition of James Harden to the Clippers, expectations were high for their offense to reach new heights. However, amid the reinforcement, Paul George has struggled to meet the expected standards; or to showcase the caliber he possesses as a player of his stature.

“He Left Us…So Bye Bye”: Nikola Jokic Forces 37YO Rockets Star to Bid Farewell to His 1st Ring After Ditching Nuggets

With less than 3 minutes remaining in the game, Paul George had only managed to score 4 points; shooting 2-11 from the field. Furthermore, George accounted for 8 rebounds and 4 assists.

3. The Clippers’ big four have yet to prove themselves

Despite officially being labeled as a big four, there has been no tangible outing to back up the Clipper’s new unit. So far, 12 games into their coming together, there has been no collective impact that resonates with their basketball brilliance. Since Harden’s debut, the team has struggled, winning 4 and losing 8 games.

Watch This Story – “Anthony Davis is the Biggest Loser”: Fans Obliterate ‘The Brow’ for Ruining LeBron James’ Historic Night

While Kawhi Leonard had an impressive 31 points and 8 rebounds, both James Harden and Russell Westbrook fell short with 11 and 14 points, respectively. Furthermore, despite starting the game, Harden failed to touch 10 shot attempts. Westbrook, coming off the bench, took 9 shots, 2 more than Harden.

The Clippers will next take on the Sacramento Kings this Wednesday. Watch this space as we keep you posted with more updates.