The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers are locked in a thrilling first-round matchup in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, with Game 3  and our Nuggets vs. Clippers predictions set to tip off today Thursday, April 24, at 10 p.m. ET on NBATV. 

This is after a dramatic Game 1 that saw Denver comeback from a fifteen-point deficit to a 112-110 overtime victory and a tightly contested Game 2 where the Clippers responded to even the series.

 

 

 

Nuggets vs. Clippers Predictions for NBA Playoffs Game 3 on NBATV, 4/24

This pivotal game at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles promises more fireworks. Both teams finished the regular season with identical 50-32 records, but Denver secured the No. 4 seed via a tiebreaker, while the Clippers hold the No. 5 seed.

With the series tied 1-1, Game 3 is a critical opportunity for either team to seize momentum. Here’s a deep dive into the storylines, odds, Nuggets vs. Clippers picks, viewing details, injury reports, and how to place your wagers for this Western Conference showdown.

 

 

 

Denver Nuggets: Reckless with the Rock

The Nuggets enter Game 3 riding the brilliance of Nikola Jokic, who continues to solidify his case as the NBA’s best player. In Game 1, Jokic nearly notched a triple-double with 29 points, 12 assists, and nine rebounds, while Game 2 saw him battle through tough defense from Clippers center Ivica Zubac. Jokic’s ability to orchestrate Denver’s offense while dominating the glass and scoring efficiently (29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG in the regular season) makes him the ultimate X-factor. 

However, the Nuggets’ supporting cast remains a question mark. Jamal Murray, dealing with a lingering hamstring issue, struggled in Game 2, and his scoring output (21.4 PPG, 39.3% from three in the regular season) will be crucial against L.A.’s elite perimeter defenders like Kris Dunn. Denver’s shocking decision to fire head coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth late in the regular season has added uncertainty, with interim coach David Adelman tasked with managing a thin roster. 

Russell Westbrook’s clutch plays off the bench, including a game-sealing three in Game 1, have been a boost, but Denver’s lack of depth and defensive struggles (23rd in defensive rating post-All-Star break) could be exposed against a surging Clippers squad. 

Can the Nuggets clean up their costly turnovers? They committed 20 turnovers in game two, and still only loss by three points. If they clean those up they have an easier path to victory.

 

 

 

Los Angeles Clippers: Kawhi Leonard’s Health and Defensive Prowess Fuel Upset Hopes

The Clippers are peaking at the right time, entering Game 3 with confidence after a strong Game 2 performance that showcased their depth and defensive tenacity. Kawhi Leonard, fully healthy and averaging 21.5 points and 5.9 rebounds in the regular season, remains the cornerstone, with his two-way dominance (22 points, six rebounds, three steals in Game 1) setting the tone. 

James Harden has silenced playoff critics with stellar play, dropping 32 points and 11 assists in Game 1 and consistently exploiting Denver’s pick-and-roll defense. Ivica Zubac’s emergence as a rim protector and rebounding force (21 points, 13 rebounds in Game 1) has been a game-changer, holding Jokic to 25% shooting in regular-season matchups. Under coach Tyronn Lue, the Clippers boast the NBA’s third-best defensive rating and a +12.7 net rating when Leonard is on the floor, making them a formidable matchup for Denver’s offense-heavy approach.

 L.A.’s 15-2 run to close the regular season and a league-best +14.1 net rating over their final 10 games signal their potential to upset the Nuggets. However, Leonard’s seven turnovers in Game 1 and Harden’s postseason history loom as concerns. Can the Clippers capitalize on home court and their defensive versatility to take control of the series?

 

 

 

Nuggets vs. Clippers Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Here are the latest Nuggets vs. Clippers odds for Game 3, sourced from DraftKings Sportsbook as of April 23, 2025:

  • Spread: Clippers -5 (-110) | Nuggets +5 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Clippers -205 | Nuggets +170
  • Total (Over/Under): Over 213.5 (-110) | Under 213.5 (-110)

The Clippers opened as 5 point favorites, reflecting their strong home performance (30 - 11 at Intuit Dome). The total has dropped to 213.5 points, as both teams have tightened defensively in the playoffs.

A five-point spread would be the largest victory this season, but one thing to keep in mind is the first home game for the Clippers first home game since April 9th. ‘The toughest road game is the first game back after a long road trip’, wise words from the great Hubie Brown that rarely prove to be wrong.

 

 

 

Nuggets vs. Clippers Player Prop Pick: Ivica Zubac O12.5 Rebounds (-125 on DraftKings)

For Game 3, our Nuggets vs. Clippers predictions lies in the player prop market with Ivica Zubac Over 11.5 Rebounds. Zubac has been a rebounding machine against Denver, grabbing 13 rebounds in game 2, 12 rebounds in game 2 and averaging 12.6 RPG in the regular season, including 15 and 13 boards in two matchups against the Nuggets. 

With Jokic commanding attention in the paint, Zubac has capitalized on second-chance opportunities, clearing this line in both regular-season games against Denver. The Clippers’ emphasis on crashing the glass (L.A. outrebounded Denver in Game 2) and Zubac’s increased playoff minutes (playing 39 or more minutes in each game) make this a high-value prop. 

Denver’s 23rd-ranked defensive rating post-All-Star break and reliance on Jokic to anchor the paint leave openings for Zubac to dominate the boards. Trust Zubac to keep his rebounding average going at the first playoff game at the Intuit Center. Put a unit on our Nuggets vs. Clippers predictions at DraftKings right now.

 

 

 

How To Watch Nuggets vs. Clippers on NBATV Today

Game 3 of the Nuggets vs. Clippers series tips off on Thursday, April 24, at 10 p.m. ET from Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The game will be broadcast live on NBATV, with streaming available on fuboTV (free trial available) and the NBA League Pass. 

For those watching on NBATV, check your local cable or satellite provider for channel listings, typically found on channels like 216 (Dish), 402 (DirecTV), or 630 (Xfinity). Pregame coverage begins at 9:30 p.m. ET, featuring NBATV’s playoff analysis. Fans can also follow live updates via the NBA app or CBS Sports’ game tracker.

 

 

 

Nuggets vs. Clippers Injury Report & Starting Lineup

Injury Report

Projected Starting Lineups

Key bench players for Denver include Russell Westbrook and Peyton Watson, while the Clippers rely on Derrick Jones and Bogdan Bogdanovic for depth.

 

 

 

How To Bet On Nuggets vs. Clippers at DraftKings Sportsbook & Claim Your $150 Bonus

Ready to wager on Nuggets vs. Clippers picks? DraftKings Sportsbook offers a seamless betting experience and a generous welcome bonus for new users. Here’s how to get started and claim your $150 in bonus bets:

  • Sign Up: Use our links to create an account. No DraftKings promo code is required for this offer.
  • Deposit: Make a minimum deposit of $10.
  • Place Your First Bet: Wager at least $5 on any Nuggets vs. Clippers predictions (e.g., Zubac Over 11.5 Rebounds, Clippers -3, or Over 220.5).
  • Claim Your Bonus: Win or lose, DraftKings will instantly credit your account with six $25 bonus bets (totaling $150). Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance.

To bet, navigate to the NBA section on DraftKings, select the Clippers vs. Nuggets game, and choose from moneyline, spread, total, or player prop markets. For example, to bet on Zubac's rebound prop, go to “Player Props,” find Ivica Zubac, and select “Over 12.5 Rebounds (-110).” 

DraftKings also offers live betting and same-game parlays for added excitement. New users in Colorado can enhance their experience with updated promos, but always check terms and conditions. Bet responsibly, and if you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

This Game 3 matchup is shaping up to be a defining moment in the series, with the Clippers’ home dominance and defensive edge clashing against Jokic’s brilliance and Denver’s resilience. Backing Zubac’s rebound prop offers a smart, data-driven play, but the Clippers’ -3 spread and the Under 220.5 are also worth considering based on recent trends. Tune in on NBATV and place your bets with DraftKings to join the playoff action.

Bet Smart, Be Lucky - Iggy -

 

 

 

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