The Los Angeles Clippers fell 130-116 to the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday at the Intuit Dome, with Nikola Jokic exploding for 55 points. Despite a strong first half, Tyronn Lue said the third quarter remains a recurring problem.
Lue explained the defensive plan against Jokic and Jamal Murray, noting, “Our game plan was to make him score and just take everybody else out of the game. I thought the first half we did a good job with that… I didn’t think he would score 55.”
The Clippers’ struggles in the third were clear, as Lue pointed out, “Just a lack of energy… you can’t come out and give them 43 points in the third quarter and expect to win.” He acknowledged the heavy minutes for James Harden and Ivica Zubac contributed to the fatigue.
Despite the loss, Lue praised the bench’s contributions, highlighting Jordan Miller’s career-high 22 points and the energy from Kobe Sanders and Bogdan Bogdanovic. “I thought they played the right way… keep giving those guys room to grow,” Lue said.
Lue also emphasized the importance of the team’s stars trusting teammates in offensive execution. “James just has to keep trusting, keep making the right pass, keep making the right play… If we don’t make shots, just playing good basketball is most important.”
The Clippers’ rotation continues to evolve, with Lue confirming young players will have regular opportunities. “Yes, sir… just stay ready, keep learning, and figure out spacing. John Collins is figuring out his place in the starting lineup,” he noted.
Lue addressed on-court miscommunications, particularly when defending Jokic. “It’s part of basketball… against a guy like Joker, you make a mistake, he makes you pay. We just have to limit our mistakes,” he said.
The Clippers hope the upcoming road trip offers a chance to regain rhythm and team cohesion. Lue emphasized, “Staying together, sticking together… playing better basketball, getting some wins, it starts with Dallas on Friday.”
Los Angeles remains short-handed with Bradley Beal out for the season and Kawhi Leonard sidelined, leaving Lue to navigate the lineup adjustments while preparing for a seven-game road trip.
Despite the setback, Lue’s focus remains on growth and execution. “We’ll continue to preach sharing the basketball, moving bodies, moving the ball… and give our young guys room to grow,” he said.
