Kawhi Leonard delivered a stellar performance, scoring 39 points to help the Los Angeles Clippers level their first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets with a narrow 105-102 victory on Tuesday (AEST).
“It felt like he didn’t miss a shot,” remarked James Harden. “His ability to make shots is top-notch.”
This was fortunate, as his teammates managed a combined shooting percentage of just 39.4%, hitting 26 of 66 attempts.
Kawhi Leonard. Getty
The fifth-seeded Clippers needed every ounce of Leonard’s brilliance to take the homecourt advantage from the fourth-seeded Nuggets.
After only playing in two playoff matches over the past two years, the 33-year-old two-time Finals MVP has returned to form following a long absence due to issues with his surgically repaired knees, which caused him to miss the first 34 games of the season.
Aussie star Ben Simmons came off the bench for a couple of short appearances, contributing two points, one rebound, and one assist for the Clippers.
Nikola Jokic and Ben Simmons go head-to-head in the playoffs. Getty
The basket marked Simmons’ first post-season point since 2021.
Simmons entered the game in the first quarter to defend against Nikola Jokic and made his presence felt at both ends, returning for another stint in the third quarter.
Although Jokic secured his 19th career playoff triple-double, it wasn’t enough to clinch victory for the Nuggets, who will aim to regain the series advantage on Friday (AEST).
Jokic’s performance was hampered by an uncharacteristic seven turnovers and he missed four out of ten free throws.
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