Game Preview
The Denver Nuggets (12-10) and Los Angeles Clippers (14-11) are set to clash on Friday night in a matchup of two teams trending in opposite directions. The Nuggets have won their last game, while the Clippers are looking to snap a two-game skid. However, both squads have been playing well overall, with identical 12-8 records over their last 20 games.
On the offensive end, Denver has been lighting up the scoreboard, averaging nearly 122 points over their last 10 contests. They've been particularly hot from downtown, hitting a blistering 38% of their threes during this stretch. The Nuggets have also shared the ball effectively, dishing out just over 32 assists per game. Their balanced attack has overwhelmed opponents, leading to five wins in their last 10 outings.
Defensively, however, Denver has been vulnerable, surrendering 118.3 points per game over the same span. They'll need to tighten up on that end against a Clippers team that has been efficient on offense. Los Angeles is shooting a shade below 47% from the field and hovering around 37% from three over their last 10 games. The Clippers have also taken care of the ball, averaging under 15 turnovers during this stretch.
Where Los Angeles has struggled is on the glass. They've been outrebounded by nearly five boards per game in their last 10 contests. The Nuggets could exploit this advantage by crashing the boards aggressively and creating second-chance opportunities.
Ultimately, this matchup could come down to which team dictates the pace and imposes its style of play. If Denver can push the tempo and force a high-scoring affair, they'll have the upper hand. But if the Clippers can grind out a defensive battle, their execution on offense could be the difference.