Nuggets Host Surging Clippers in Key Western Conference Showdown
DENVER, January 30, 2026 – The Denver Nuggets welcome the Los Angeles Clippers to Ball Arena on Saturday night in a game featuring significant playoff implications and the anticipated return of a two-time MVP. The Clippers, winners of 15 of their last 18 games, look to continue their remarkable mid-season turnaround against a Nuggets squad aiming to solidify its position near the top of the conference.
Jokic Set for Return Against Hot Clippers
The headline for the matchup is the reported return of Nuggets centre Nikola Jokic, who has missed time with a knee injury. Before his absence, the 30-year-old was putting up MVP-calibre numbers, averaging 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 11 assists per game. His presence immediately elevates a Denver team that holds a 32-16 record. They face a Clippers team that has completely reversed its fortunes after a dismal 6-21 start to the season, now sitting at 22-24 and charging into the playoff picture.
Key Facts & Injury Report
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Date & Time | Saturday, January 31, 2026 |
| Location | Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado |
| Denver Nuggets Record | 32-16 |
| LA Clippers Record | 22-24 |
| Clippers Recent Form | Won 9 of last 10, 15 of last 18 |
| Nuggets Key Injury | Aaron Gordon (Out – Hamstring), Christian Braun (Out), Cameron Johnson (Out) |
| Clippers Key Injury | Kawhi Leonard (Expected to play, potentially limited minutes) |
| All-Time Series | Nuggets lead 111-87 |
| Last Meeting (Nov 12, 2025) | Nuggets won 130-116 in LA (Leonard did not play) |
Playoff Rematch & Statistical Edge
This game carries the weight of recent playoff history, as the Nuggets eliminated the Clippers in a seven-game series during the 2025 postseason. Statistically, Denver holds several advantages. They boast the second-best against-the-spread record in the NBA at 28-20-0 (58.3%). The Clippers, meanwhile, have been average in that category. However, LA’s offence has been scorching from beyond the arc, shooting an impressive 38.7% from three-point range over their last 20 games, ranking third-best in the league in that span.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nikola Jokic playing against the Clippers?
Yes, multiple reports indicate Nikola Jokic plans to return from a knee injury for this game on January 31. His return is crucial for the Nuggets’ offence and playmaking.
What is Kawhi Leonard’s status?
Kawhi Leonard is expected to suit up for the Clippers despite being listed on the injury report. He has been limited to less than 30 minutes per game recently but is coming off a 21-point performance in a win over Utah.
What is the prediction for the game?
One prominent computer projection model predicts a Nuggets victory with a final score of 118-113. The Nuggets are slight favourites on the moneyline, and the projected total points line is set above 210.5.