By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
A monster performance by Nikola Jokic including several daggers down the stretch powered the Denver Nuggets to the 111-98 win against the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Joker banked 34 points, 11 of those with three made shots beyond the arc in the fourth quarter. In addition, he pulled down 14 rebounds and dished seven assists.
Sunday’s comeback was similar to previous tilts of the exciting Western Conference semifinals. Apart from each match separately, the Nuggets tied the best-of-seven series at three wins apiece after being down 3-1.
A 27-6 run generated an 82-79 lead early in the final period. The Nuggets went on for the “W” holding their opponents to 35 points in the second half. Patrick Beverley fouling out with ten minutes to go helped their case.
Jamal Murray scored 21 points and Gary Harris 16. Michael Porter Jr. added 13 more points off the bench.
The Clips missed one more chance to close out the series, but can still make it to the Conference finals for the first time in franchise history Tuesday. The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Game 7 winner.
Paul George posted a team-high 33 points with 9/21 field goals. Kawhi Leonard finished with 25 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and two steals to his name.
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