The LA Clippers delivered a resounding statement in Game 3 of their first-round playoff matchup, dismantling the defending champion Denver Nuggets 117-83 at the Intuit Dome. Despite the series still being relatively close at 2-1, NBA legend Charles Barkley has already made up his mind — and it’s not great news for Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets.
During Inside the NBA, Barkley didn’t hold back. Watching the Game 3 highlights alongside the TNT crew, he boldly declared, “This series is over.” He followed it up with even more confidence, saying, “I don’t think Denver is going to win another game.” Barkley reiterated his belief, stating, “I told y’all a couple of weeks ago, that’s the second-best team in the West right there.”
It’s a bold take, especially considering the Nuggets still have the MVP frontrunner in Nikola Jokic. But Barkley seems convinced that the Clippers—led by stars James Harden and Kawhi Leonard—pose a bigger threat than Denver can handle.
Why Barkley Might Have a Point
Game 3 was a masterclass for the Clippers. Harden (20 points) and Leonard (21 points) both delivered, and they weren’t alone. Four of the Clippers’ five starters scored 19 or more points, and bench players Nicolas Batum (12 points) and Derrick Jones Jr. (10 points) also made solid contributions. If this level of offensive balance continues, Denver could be in trouble.
In contrast, the Nuggets’ supporting cast has struggled. Michael Porter Jr., expected to be Denver’s third offensive weapon, has managed just 25 points across three games—and only 10 combined in Games 1 and 3. Aaron Gordon has stepped up in spots, but Porter Jr.’s inconsistency has been a problem.
Christian Braun, another key contributor from their 2023 title run, has also seen a dip in production. After averaging 15.3 points per game in the regular season, he’s down to just 8.3 points per game in the series.
And if that wasn’t enough, the firing of head coach Michael Malone right before the playoffs has added more instability to the Nuggets’ locker room.
Can the Nuggets Bounce Back?
Before the series began, many analysts (including this one) predicted the Clippers would win in seven games. Barkley, however, now believes it might be done in five. His skepticism may not stem from doubt in Jokic’s abilities, but rather from how the rest of the Nuggets have looked—disorganized, outmatched, and lacking that championship spark.
With Game 4 looming, the Nuggets have a lot to prove. Can they bounce back and even the series? Or will Barkley’s prediction come true, with the Clippers cruising to the second round?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Can Denver rally behind Jokic and Murray to turn things around? Or has Barkley already seen the writing on the wall?
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