NBA Playoffs 2025: Game 7 Showdowns Set to Thrill Fans
As the NBA playoffs’ second round is set to tip off on Sunday, the excitement is palpable, but before we get there, two Game 7s are poised to capture the attention of basketball fans everywhere. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves have already punched their tickets to the next round with decisive victories over their first-round opponents. However, the other two Western Conference series have been nothing short of thrilling, with both matchups heading to a decisive Game 7.
The LA Clippers managed to force a Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets with a hard-fought 111-105 victory on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets, who found themselves down 3-1, kept their playoff hopes alive with a 115-107 win over the Golden State Warriors on Friday night. These two teams will now face off on Sunday, with the winner earning the right to challenge the Timberwolves in the second round.
With the stakes higher than ever, let’s dive into the key factors that could determine the outcome of these pivotal Game 7s and explore how each team can secure their spot in the next round. Our NBA insiders are here to break down the biggest questions surrounding these matchups.
LA Clippers at Denver Nuggets
How can the Clippers advance?
The Clippers made a strategic adjustment in Game 6 by opting for a smaller lineup featuring Nicolas Batum. This move was designed to create more space for James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, and it seems to have paid off. Even Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ star, acknowledged the effectiveness of this change, noting Batum’s shooting prowess and defensive versatility.
Clippers coach Tyronn Lue had been hesitant to make this offense-for-defense swap due to his appreciation for Kris Dunn’s defensive skills. However, if Batum can replicate his Game 6 performance on both ends of the floor, the Clippers may have found the winning formula. They just need to stick to it.
How can the Nuggets advance?
The Nuggets have the advantage of size and physicality, and when they’ve imposed their will on the Clippers, they’ve been able to control the series. This starts with Jokic, who needs to challenge Clippers center Ivica Zubac and draw more fouls than he did in Game 6, where he only attempted two free throws.
When Jokic is aggressive and sets the tone early, it opens up the Denver offense, allowing players like Jamal Murray to shine, as he did in Game 5 with a spectacular shooting display.
How did we get here?
This series has delivered on its promise of high-stakes drama. Each star player has had their moment in the spotlight, from Westbrook’s Game 1 heroics to Leonard’s Game 2 brilliance, and Jokic’s Game 4 dominance. Both coaches have been adept at making adjustments and motivating their teams, but the question remains: which team has more left in the tank?
The Nuggets have a wealth of Game 7 experience, having played in more than any other team since 2019, while Lue is renowned for his prowess in elimination games. With Finals MVPs like Jokic and Leonard on the court, this Game 7 promises to be a classic showdown.
Key factors for Game 7
- Fatigue will be a critical factor, with Jamal Murray logging the most minutes of any player in the first round, and Nikola Jokic not far behind. The Clippers have a deeper bench, but Lue has leaned heavily on his stars, with Harden playing the entire second half of Game 6.
- Getting off to a strong start will be crucial. In Game 5, the Nuggets’ early lead allowed them to rest Jokic, keeping him fresh for the second half. If the Clippers can seize the momentum early, it could force Denver to play catch-up.
- The altitude in Denver adds another layer of complexity, as both teams have been pushed to their limits in this grueling series.
The real winner of this series might just be the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have had the luxury of rest after sweeping the Memphis Grizzlies. Whichever team can muster the energy for Game 7 will likely advance.
Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets
How can the Warriors advance?
Golden State’s wealth of Game 7 experience could be their ace in the hole. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green have been here before, and their familiarity with high-pressure situations could prove invaluable. Curry’s Game 7 scoring average of 32.6 points is among the best in NBA history, and he’ll need to deliver another standout performance.
However, the Warriors must find a way to crack Houston’s zone defense and free up Curry for more scoring opportunities. While Curry had 29 points in Game 6, he struggled in the second half, and the Warriors will need a third scorer to step up. Whether it’s Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, or Moses Moody, someone needs to provide offensive support.
Defensively, Green will need to be at his best, and the Warriors must limit turnovers while containing Fred VanVleet. Coach Steve Kerr has hinted at potential lineup changes, including possibly giving Jonathan Kuminga some playing time.
How can the Rockets advance?
Coach Ime Udoka has emphasized consistency and making simple plays, and the Rockets have thrived with their double-big lineups. These lineups have given Golden State fits, and Houston’s zone defense has been particularly effective against Curry.
Houston needs to maintain their physicality and continue winning the battle in the paint and on second-chance points. The Rockets’ ability to turn defense into offense has been a key factor, and players like Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, and Jalen Green will be crucial in generating fast-break points.
How did they get here?
The Warriors took Game 1 in Houston with a gritty performance, but the Rockets responded with a dominant Game 2 victory. Injuries have played a role, with Jimmy Butler missing Game 3, but Golden State managed to secure a win in his absence.
After taking a 3-1 series lead, the Warriors seemed poised to advance, but the Rockets roared back with a commanding Game 5 win. In Game 6, Golden State’s offense faltered in the fourth quarter, allowing Houston to force a Game 7.
Key factors for Game 7
- Houston’s double-big lineups with Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun have been a game-changer. The Rockets have used these lineups to great effect, and their hybrid defense has kept Curry in check.
- Golden State’s coaching staff needs to find the right lineup combinations to counter Houston’s strategies. The Warriors’ shooting struggles in Game 6 highlight the need for adjustments.
- With both teams battling fatigue and injuries, the team that can execute their game plan and maintain their composure will likely emerge victorious.
As we gear up for these thrilling Game 7 matchups, the anticipation is building. Will the Clippers and Warriors leverage their experience to advance, or will the Nuggets and Rockets continue their impressive runs? One thing is for sure: basketball fans are in for a treat this weekend.
Originally Written by: Multiple contributors
