Nikola Jokic fell to the bench in Denver’s 34-point loss to the Clippers.

The Los Angeles Clippers delivered a brutal statement win in Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, dismantling the Denver Nuggets 117-83 at the Intuit Dome and taking a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference Quarterfinals. It wasn’t just a loss—it was a resounding declaration of dominance that saw the reigning champions completely outclassed. Despite a triple-double from Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets were simply outmatched by a Clippers team that played with focus, energy, and ruthless efficiency.

The victory was spearheaded by Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Norman Powell, all of whom delivered standout performances. Meanwhile, Denver crumbled under pressure, and the team’s body language—especially that of Jokic—suggested disappointment, frustration, and confusion. With this kind of momentum shift, the entire complexion of the series has changed.

Nikola Jokic’s triple-double wasn’t enough

On paper, Nikola Jokic’s triple-double—23 points, 13 assists, and 13 rebounds—looks impressive. He shot 9-for-14 from the field and played 36 minutes, including five in the fourth quarter. But those numbers don’t tell the whole story. Jokic looked visibly discouraged and disconnected, especially during the Clippers’ devastating run between the first and second quarters when they outscored Denver 23–2.

The Serbian superstar remained a lone bright spot in an otherwise dismal Nuggets performance. However, the triple-double did not reflect impact; it reflected necessity. Jokic tried to keep the offense moving, but Denver’s poor perimeter shooting (7-for-26 from three-point range) and lack of defensive intensity made his efforts futile. As Jokic himself admitted postgame, “They played better than us in every aspect of the game… we didn’t react, we didn’t respond, and we need to play more like fighters.”

Jokic’s body language, especially in the second half, said what his stats couldn’t: he knew this was a complete team collapse.

Clippers dominate on both ends of the floor

Led by Kawhi Leonard, who posted 21 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, the Clippers turned Game 3 into a showcase of how to execute in the playoffs. Their offense was fluid, their defense suffocating, and their energy levels consistent across all four quarters. Leonard’s signature calmness paired beautifully with James Harden’s explosive first half—Harden finished with 20 points and nine assists, most of which came before halftime. Norman Powell added another 20, providing a spark off the bench.

The Clippers’ defense deserves special recognition. Not only did they stifle the Nuggets’ usually potent offense, but they also forced Denver into uncomfortable positions. There was little room for Jamal Murray, who did manage to score 23 points but on forced attempts and with very little help. The Clippers controlled the pace, closed out shooters aggressively, and made sure the Nuggets never gained rhythm.

Their strategy was clear: crowd Jokic when he gets the ball in the post, rotate quickly to shooters, and attack relentlessly in transition. The result? A complete annihilation of a team that many considered favorites to repeat as NBA champions.

Clippers’ role players step up in massive ways

One of the most underrated aspects of the Clippers’ Game 3 win was how their role players delivered consistently, particularly Ivica Zubac and Nicolas Batum. Zubac was a force in the paint, scoring 19 points on 8-for-12 shooting while grabbing nine rebounds and recording a block. His physicality disrupted Jokic early and allowed the Clippers to control the boards.

Meanwhile, Batum, often used as a versatile defender, contributed 12 points, five rebounds, and three blocks. His veteran presence on both ends was vital, especially when the Clippers extended their lead in the third quarter. Bogdan Bogdanovic, although quiet offensively, added ball movement and smart playmaking that kept Denver guessing.

Even with Russell Westbrook sidelined due to a foot injury sustained in pregame warmups, the Clippers’ depth showed why they are a legitimate threat in the West. They didn’t just beat the Nuggets—they outworked them.

Denver’s supporting cast disappears at the worst time

For the Nuggets, Game 3 was a sobering reminder of how vulnerable they can be when Jokic doesn’t get help. Jamal Murray, though he added 23 points, struggled with shot selection and couldn’t distribute effectively. Aaron Gordon was largely ineffective, and Michael Porter Jr. failed to provide the shooting punch Denver needed to stay competitive.

Injuries have also started to pile up for Denver. Russell Westbrook, a critical energy piece off the bench, had to leave the game early. Vlatko Cancar and Dario Saric were already out, further thinning a roster that lacked the depth to counter the Clippers’ full-strength rotation. Interim head coach David Adelman summed it up best: “Bottom line, this was not our standard in any way.”

The lack of defensive communication, offensive creativity, and overall urgency from Denver was staggering. And if they don’t bounce back quickly, this series could spiral out of their control.

A historic collapse that might shake the West

The 34-point loss was not just a bad night—it was historically bad. For a team that features the reigning NBA Finals MVP, getting blown out in the playoffs is deeply concerning. Analysts were quick to note that this was one of the worst playoff losses for a defending champion in modern NBA history. The Clippers outplayed the Nuggets in every phase of the game: rebounding, shooting, passing, transition offense, and half-court defense.

This game could mark a psychological turning point in the series. The Nuggets, previously confident and seemingly in control, now find themselves searching for answers. Jokic’s visible frustration, the team’s body language, and the growing injury concerns are combining to create doubt in a locker room that once exuded championship composure.

Game 4: The pressure is now on Denver

With the Clippers holding a 2–1 lead, Game 4 becomes a must-win for Denver. A 3–1 deficit would be devastating, especially considering the way they’ve been manhandled. They’ll need to rediscover their identity—team basketball centered around Jokic’s vision, efficient ball movement, and off-ball activity from shooters.

On the flip side, the Clippers must continue pressing their advantages. Leonard’s leadership, Harden’s playmaking, and the rebounding control of Zubac are proving to be a lethal combination. Head coach Tyronn Lue will no doubt keep the team focused, reminding them that one good game doesn’t win a series.

Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday night at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood. All eyes will be on how Denver responds—and whether Nikola Jokic can rally his squad to level the series.

Jokic’s greatness not enough without support

Nikola Jokic has nothing left to prove as an individual player. His talent, basketball IQ, and unselfishness make him one of the greatest players of his generation. But in a playoff setting, one man cannot do it alone. Without consistent contributions from Murray, Porter Jr., and the bench unit, Jokic’s triple-doubles are wasted brilliance.

This blowout serves as a wake-up call—not just for the Nuggets, but for the rest of the league. The Clippers are no longer just a team with big names. They are locked in, deep, and hungry. And with Jokic facing an uphill battle to keep Denver alive, the drama of the 2025 NBA Playoffs has never been more intense.

Conclusion: Clippers Seize Control While Nuggets Search for Identity

Game 3 was more than a win—it was a message sent by the Los Angeles Clippers. The Nuggets were not just beaten; they were dismantled. With Nikola Jokic putting up a stat-stuffed performance that still felt like a loss, and Denver’s bench floundering, the momentum has firmly shifted.

If Denver hopes to return to the heights of last year’s championship glory, they’ll need to regroup fast. Because this version of the Clippers? They’re no longer underdogs—they’re favorites to shock the West.