How many points did Kawhi Leonard score tonight against Denver Nuggets in Game 3? (April 24, 2025 NBA playoffs)
The LA Clippers made their NBA playoffs debut at the Intuit Dome on Thursday, defeating the Denver Nuggets 117-83 in Game 3 of their first-round series. The Clippers entered the matchup riding the momentum of a thrilling Game 2 victory, fueled by a stellar performance from Kawhi Leonard.
In Game 3, Leonard got off to a slow start but gradually found his rhythm as the game went on. With James Harden and Norman Powell carrying the majority of the scoring burden, the Clippers didn’t require a dominant offensive performance from their veteran forward.
In the end, Kawhi Leonard finished with 21 points on 7 of 17 shooting, including 3 of 6 from beyond the arc, and 4 of 5 from the charity stripe. He also registered 11 rebounds and six assists in 34:33 minutes.
Kawhi Leonard through 4 quarters
Although Leonard delivered a shooting clinic in Game 2, he didn’t open Game 3 with the same sharpness. Surprisingly, the veteran forward missed a couple of open looks, shots he typically makes with ease. However, the two-time NBA champion quickly found his rhythm, getting on the scoreboard by sinking a 3-pointer.
Following a Nuggets turnover, Leonard capitalized with an easy layup in transition, encountering no defensive resistance. This basket pushed his total to five points for the opening quarter.
Leonard maintained his offensive aggression in the second quarter, actively seeking out his shots. However, he connected on just two of his six attempts, an uncharacteristic performance for the typically ultra-efficient forward.
At half time, Leonard had nine points on 4 of 10 shooting from the floor, including 1 of 4 from 3-point range. He also chipped in with five rebounds and three assists in 19:37 minutes.
Leonard attempted three shots in the third quarter, connecting on one from beyond the arc. He also made two trips to the free-throw line, calmly sinking both attempts to finish the period with five points. Meanwhile, the Clippers seized control of the game, extending their lead to 20 points heading into the fourth quarter.