Preview: Clippers Visit Nuggets in Key Western Conference Matchup DENVER (Interstat) — The surging Los Angeles Clippers, winners of eight of their last 10, will face a stern test Friday night when they visit the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. The game pits two teams on divergent paths in the Western Conference standings. The Nuggets (32-16) enter as one of the conference’s top seeds, while the Clippers (22-24) are fighting to climb above .500 and solidify a play-in tournament position. All eyes will be on the point guard matchup, featuring two players in elite form. The Clippers’ James Harden has been a catalyst for their recent surge, averaging 22.8 points and 8.4 assists over his last 10 games. He is coming off a 16-point, 10-assist performance in a 115-103 road win over Utah on Tuesday. Denver counters with Jamal Murray, who is averaging 27.8 points and 7.8 assists over his last five contests. He scored 27 points and dished six assists in Denver’s most recent outing, a 107-103 home victory over Brooklyn on Thursday. The Nuggets won the first meeting this season, a 130-116 home victory on Nov. 12, 2025. Denver’s high-powered offense, which operates efficiently in the altitude of Ball Arena, will challenge a Clippers defense that has been inconsistent. According to National Statistical’s ELO system, the Nuggets are projected with a 63.5% probability to win. The over/under is set at 210.5 points. For the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard remains a critical secondary option, coming off a 21-point, seven-rebound game against Utah. Denver’s supporting cast, including Tim Hardaway Jr. and center Jonas Valanciunas, will look to provide ample support for Murray. The contest begins a challenging stretch for both teams. Following Friday’s game, the Clippers embark on a six-game road trip, while the Nuggets will play seven of their next nine away from Denver. The teams will meet again in Los Angeles on Feb. 19.