The Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets are deadlocked at 2–2 in their first-round playoff series, with Game 5 set to take place at Ball Arena in Denver. Despite the series being tied, the Clippers have demonstrated resilience and depth, positioning them as strong contenders to win and cover the spread in this pivotal matchup.​

The series has been a rollercoaster. The Nuggets secured a narrow overtime victory in Game 1, while the Clippers bounced back in Game 2 with a 105–102 win. Game 3 saw the Clippers dominate with a 117–83 blowout, showcasing their offensive firepower. However, Game 4 was a heartbreaker for Los Angeles, as Aaron Gordon's buzzer-beating dunk gave Denver a 101–99 win, tying the series. Notably, the Clippers erased a 22-point deficit in Game 4, highlighting their tenacity and ability to adjust mid-game.

Throughout the series, the Clippers have exhibited superior defensive metrics. They've held the Nuggets to an average of 99.8 points per game over the last three contests, emphasizing their defensive prowess. Offensively, Los Angeles has been efficient, with Kawhi Leonard averaging 26.5 points per game and Norman Powell contributing significantly off the bench. The Clippers' ball movement and spacing have led to high-percentage shots, particularly from beyond the arc, where they've outshot the Nuggets in three of the four games.​

The Clippers' ability to perform under pressure is evident. In Game 3, they executed a 23–2 run, demonstrating their capacity to dominate stretches of play. Their bench depth, highlighted by Powell's recent performances, provides a scoring punch that the Nuggets have struggled to match. Additionally, Los Angeles has been effective in limiting Nikola Jokić's supporting cast, forcing the MVP to shoulder a significant offensive load. This strategy has paid dividends, as the Nuggets' secondary scorers have been inconsistent.​

Los Angeles has a strong track record when favored by 1.5 points or more, boasting a 28–20 record against the spread in such scenarios this season. Moreover, the Clippers have demonstrated resilience on the road, already securing a win in Denver during Game 2. Their recent form, combined with strategic adjustments and depth, positions them well to not only win but also cover the spread in Game 5. As the series intensifies, expect the Clippers to leverage their experience and tactical acumen to gain the upper hand.

Best odds available at William Hill.