Denver Nuggets Face Injury Challenges Against LA Clippers

The Denver Nuggets (8-2) faced the Los Angeles Clippers (3-7) on November 12, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. This matchup marked the first meeting of the season between the two teams, following a competitive playoff series last year where the Nuggets emerged victorious in seven games. The Nuggets entered the game on a five-game winning streak, while the Clippers were struggling, having lost their last five contests.

Denver Nuggets at LA Clippers odds, picks and predictionsNuggets starter leaves Clippers game early via arm injurySports Illustrated

The Nuggets were already dealing with injury concerns, as both Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon were listed as probable due to minor ailments. However, the situation worsened during the game when two starters, Cameron Johnson and Christian Braun, suffered injuries. Johnson exited the game in the first quarter with a right arm strain and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest after playing only eight minutes. Braun, who initially returned after an ankle injury, was later ruled out as well, further depleting the Nuggets' lineup.

Christian Braun, Cam Johnson exit Clippers game with injuries

Despite the injuries, the Nuggets were favored to win, with a prediction of 118-111 against the Clippers. The Nuggets had been performing well, averaging 124 points per game during their winning streak. In contrast, the Clippers struggled defensively, allowing an average of 116 points in their recent losses. The absence of key players Kawhi Leonard and Bradley Beal, who were sidelined due to injuries, compounded the Clippers' challenges.

Denver Nuggets at LA Clippers odds, picks and predictionsSports IllustratedNuggets starter leaves Clippers game early via arm injury

Nuggets head coach David Adelman indicated that the team would prioritize the health of their starters, suggesting that Murray and Gordon might not play the entire game. He stated, "What's best for them?" emphasizing the importance of managing player health early in the season.

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Critics pointed out that the Clippers' inability to find a consistent offensive strategy, particularly without Leonard and Beal, could hinder their performance. The Clippers have struggled in various metrics, ranking in the bottom tier for offensive and defensive ratings. The absence of their star players raised concerns about their ability to compete effectively against a strong Nuggets team.

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While the Nuggets faced injury setbacks, the severity of Johnson's and Braun's injuries remained unclear during the game. Reports varied on the potential impact of these injuries on the Nuggets' season, with some analysts suggesting that the team could manage in the short term but might face challenges if the injuries were long-term.

Christian Braun, Cam Johnson exit Clippers game with injuries

The Nuggets are set to face the Minnesota Timberwolves next, where they will hope to recover from the injuries sustained against the Clippers. Meanwhile, the Clippers will need to regroup and find solutions to their ongoing struggles as they continue their season without key players.

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• “what's best for them?” — David Adelman, Nuggets Head Coach

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• “It’s a long season and Denver doesn’t want to run out of gas again due to injuries and exhaustion – the goal is the Finals.” — Analyst Commentary

Preview: Nuggets head into LA on no rest to face the Clippers

• “Braun's in a lot of pain.” — Ryan Blackburn, NBA Analyst

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