Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Clippers (Apr 22, 10:00 AM)
Standings: Seed 4 vs. Seed 5
Regular Season Series: Series tied 2-2
Playoffs Series: DEN leads 1-0
Key Insights:
The defending champs started strong as the Denver Nuggets claimed a 1-0 lead in the series. They’ll look to keep momentum against a hot Los Angeles Clippers squad that’s won 8 of their last 10.
Denver leads the Western Conference in assists per game (31.0) and has averaged 120.4 points while shooting 50.5% from the field over its last 10 games. The Clippers, meanwhile, are close behind with 117.2 points per game and an even more efficient 51.3% field goal percentage.
Players to Watch
Denver Nuggets
1. Nikola Jokic
Jokic is a DFS monster, notching five 25+ point performances this month and racking up 2+ steals in seven recent games. He’s the most consistent elite option on the slate.
2. Jamal Murray
Despite a nagging hamstring issue, Murray flirted with a triple-double in Game 1 (21 pts, 9 ast, 7 reb). If his shooting improves, he’s a high-upside GPP play.
3. Aaron Gordon
Gordon’s on a hot streak, recently scoring 25 points with 8 rebounds and 2 steals. His versatility makes him a strong mid-range DFS pick—monitor his GTD status.
4. Russell Westbrook
Coming off the bench, Russ energized the squad with 15 points, 8 boards, and 2 steals. His fourth-quarter impact and multi-category upside keep him relevant.
5. Christian Braun
Braun isn’t flashy, but he’s quietly contributing across the board on defense and earning solid minutes. A low-risk, low-cost option for value hunters.
Los Angeles Clippers
1. James Harden
Harden is facilitating at a high level with 10+ assists in six straight and shooting 50% in his last four games. He remains a top-tier fantasy pick with dual-threat upside.
2. Ivica Zubac
Zubac just logged his fifth 20-10 game in six tries. Even against Jokic, he’s a force inside and continues to produce efficiently.
3. Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi has five straight games with 22+ points and is averaging 3 steals per contest. His two-way dominance makes him a balanced Captain option.
4. Kris Dunn
Dunn has scored in double figures in back-to-back games and adds value with steals. His role isn’t locked in, but he’s trending up.
5. Norman Powell
Powell had a rough Game 1 but still delivered 12 points, 4 assists, and 2 stocks. He’s a bounce-back candidate with sneaky upside at lower ownership.
Injury Report
LA Clippers
- Seth Lundy (G) – Out for Season
Denver Nuggets
- Aaron Gordon (PF) – Game Time Decision
- DaRon Holmes II (C) – Out for Season
DFS Tip
Captain/Vice Captain Options:
Top choices include Nikola Jokic, James Harden, and Kawhi Leonard for their ceiling and reliability.
Value Picks:
Keep an eye on Christian Braun and Kris Dunn—they offer steady production without draining your credits.
