NBA Playoff Picture: Nuggets, Clippers, and Timberwolves Secure Spots While Warriors Face Play-In Challenge

The Los Angeles Clippers clinched a playoff spot in a thrilling overtime game against the Golden State Warriors, winning 124-119. This victory secured the Clippers the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Warriors dropped to No. 7 and will face the eighth-seeded Memphis Grizzlies in the play-in tournament.

Had the Warriors won, they would have pushed the Clippers to the seventh seed. James Harden was a standout player, scoring 39 points and making 10 assists, closing out an impressive season. After the game, Harden expressed confidence in his team, saying, “We’re a good team and we’re excited to show the world.”

The play-in tournament is crucial for teams aiming to secure a solid playoff position. The Warriors, who have never won a play-in game, were hoping to avoid this situation. They’re now under pressure to perform with only two days between games.

Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets bounced back from recent turmoil, including the firing of coach Michael Malone, by securing the No. 4 seed with a 126-111 win over the Houston Rockets. This win gives them home-court advantage against the Clippers in the playoffs.

The Los Angeles Lakers, Nuggets, and Clippers all finished with a 50-32 record. The Lakers had the tiebreaker, earning them the No. 3 seed, a historic first since 2012 for home games in the playoffs.

In the Eastern Conference, the playoff picture was already set. The Cleveland Cavaliers topped the standings, with the Boston Celtics following closely behind. They’re now waiting for the results of the play-in games to see who they will face in the first round.

The Indiana Pacers also had a strong finish to the season, defeating Cleveland in double overtime. This brought the total number of teams with at least 50 wins to nine, a feat not seen since the 2014-15 season.

This year’s playoffs promise to be exciting, with strong performances from various teams. As we dive into the tournament, all eyes will be on how the teams adapt and fight for the championship.

For more on the ongoing NBA season and updates, visit AP NBA.

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