Norman Powell’s 37 points lead Clippers to victory in Denver – Orange County Register

DENVER — James Harden had 23 points and 16 assists, Norman Powell scored 26 of his 37 points in the second half and the Los Angeles Clippers overcame Nikola Jokic’s 41 points to beat the Denver Nuggets 109-104 on Saturday.

Jokic hit a career-high seven 3-pointers but missed a free throw with 20 seconds left that would have tied the game. Harden made four shots from the line in the final 30.5 seconds.

The Clippers were down 103-100 when Powell hit a 3-pointer. Jamal Murray, who scored 22 points, missed a layup and then Harden made two free throws.

After Jokic split a pair from the line, Harden made two more foul shots to make it 107-104 and Jokic missed an off-balance 3-pointer.

Takeaway

Clippers: Harden missed a free throw in Wednesday’s opening loss to Phoenix but was 12 of 13 from the line on Saturday. Several of his 16 assists came to Ivica Zubac, who had 24 points and 15 rebounds.

Nuggets: The offense was better, but 3 of 18 players from the field were left on the bench. Only Julian Swater made a field goal for this squad.

Key Point

Two weeks ago, Jokic presented Colorado star Nathan MacKinnon with the MVP trophy in the Avalanche’s home opener, and MacKinnon returned the favor before Saturday’s game. He pulled out the Michael Jordan trophy while wearing Jokic’s jersey and hugged the three-time MVP.