The Los Angeles Clippers’ playoff run ended in disappointment, as they were eliminated in the first round by the Denver Nuggets after losing 120-101 in Game 7.
This marks the third consecutive year the Clippers have exited the playoffs in the opening round, despite high postseason expectations.
In Saturday’s elimination game, the Clippers struggled offensively, with Kawhi Leonard shooting 6-of-13 for 22 points and five assists, while James Harden contributed seven points on 2-of-8 shooting.
The Nuggets took control with a dominant second and third quarter, outscoring the Clippers 72-40 during that span. Denver’s balanced attack featured six players scoring in double figures, led by Aaron Gordon’s 22 points.
Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) and Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27).
Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
In the aftermath, Lakers fans reignited discussions about Leonard’s 2019 decision to join the Clippers over the Lakers.
Leonard’s decision to sign with the Clippers following his Finals MVP with the Raptors has been a point of contention. Reports suggested Leonard would have chosen the Lakers if the Clippers hadn’t traded for Paul George (via Adrian Wojnarowski).
Following the Clippers’ first round exit, a trending post depicted Leonard in a Lakers jersey alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, captioned, “You could’ve had it all, Kawhi.”
Lakers fans soon flooded the comments in mockery of Leonard, suggesting he passed up a potential dynasty with the Lakers for a less successful tenure with the Clippers.
“Chose ‘paul george’ and the ‘clippers’ over a dynasty with lebron and the lakers,” one fan wrote.
“I was so pissed when he chose the clippers over us,” another fan mentioned.
“Kawhi could of had 4 rings and bron have 6 ring,” a fan added
“Chose Pandemic P and doubled down by signing an extension and trading for Harplayoffdropper,” a fourth fan posted.
“I never understood why he didn’t sign with the Lakers , could’ve easily won 2/3 rings fasho,” a fan wrote.
The Clippers’ inability to advance past the first round in three consecutive seasons raises questions about the team’s future.
With Leonard under contract and Harden’s player option pending, the organization faces pressure to reevaluate its roster and strategies to fulfill its championship aspirations.
