Nuggets Trail Clippers 2-1 After 34-Point Blowout Loss

The Denver Nuggets suffered a devastating 117-83 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series, falling behind 2-1. Despite Nikola Jokic’s triple-double performance, the Nuggets struggled to recover after a decisive Clippers run in the second quarter, with Jokic emphasizing the need for team cohesion and 'fighter basketball.' Jokic acknowledged the Clippers’ superior execution, particularly their dominance from beyond the arc and overall hustle. He refrained from making a postgame speech, instead stressing that everyone on the team needs to step up and play together to avoid backing down. The loss, Denver's worst playoff defeat by margin, raises questions about the team’s direction and ability to respond with their season on the line. The Nuggets will look to regroup for Game 4 as the Clippers, buoyed by strong performances from Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, appear confident and in control of the series.