Denver Nuggets vs LA Clippers Prediction, Odds & Picks | 02.19.26
Denver Nuggets
LA Clippers
Game Spread
Total Points
Tale of the Tape
Key Matchup: Top Scorers
N. Jokic
K. Leonard
Detailed Analysis
Denver Nuggets vs LA Clippers Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 02.19.26
On February 19, 2026, the Denver Nuggets (35-20) travel to the Intuit Dome to face the LA Clippers (26-28) in a pivotal Western Conference showdown. While Denver looks to solidify its top-tier seeding, the Clippers are fighting to stay above water in a highly competitive playoff race. This 10:30 PM tip-off features a clash of styles between Denver’s high-efficiency offense and LA’s star-dependent isolation play.
Denver Nuggets vs LA Clippers Matchup Preview
Denver Nuggets Key Stats & Trends
The Nuggets continue to be defined by the historic production of Nikola Jokic, who remains the focal point of every offensive possession. Denver’s ability to generate open looks through high-post actions makes them incredibly difficult to defend, even with a depleted bench.
- Points: Nikola Jokic (28.7)
- Rebounds: Nikola Jokic (12.3)
- Assists: Nikola Jokic (10.7)
- Rating: Nikola Jokic (28.7 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 10.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG)
Injury Report Denver Nuggets
- Jalen Pickett (Out): Pickett (knee) did not return to Wednesday’s 122-116 win over the Grizzlies.
- Spencer Jones (Out): Jones (concussion) won’t play Wednesday against the Grizzlies.
- Peyton Watson (Out): Watson is expected to miss at least four weeks with his Grade 2 right hamstring strain.
- Aaron Gordon (Out): Gordon (hamstring) will be re-evaluated in 4-to-6 weeks.
- Tamar Bates (Out): The Nuggets announced Monday that Bates (foot) will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks.
LA Clippers Key Stats & Trends
The Clippers are leaning heavily on Kawhi Leonard as their primary engine. With significant injuries to their backcourt, LA has struggled with playmaking consistency, often resulting in stagnant offensive stretches that rely on Leonard’s mid-range excellence.
- Points: Kawhi Leonard (27.9)
- Rebounds: Kawhi Leonard (6.4)
- Assists: Kawhi Leonard (3.7)
- Rating: Kawhi Leonard (27.9 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 3.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG)
Injury Report LA Clippers
- Nicolas Batum (Out): Batum will be rested Wednesday against Houston.
- Darius Garland (Out): Garland (toe) has no timetable for a return.
- Bradley Beal (Out): Beal will undergo season-ending surgery on his left hip.
Denver Nuggets vs LA Clippers Prediction & Best Bet
Despite Denver missing key defensive pieces like Aaron Gordon, the Clippers’ backcourt is decimated without Bradley Beal and Darius Garland. This leaves LA with a massive void in shot creation that Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray will likely exploit. Expect Jokic to dominate the interior against a Clippers frontcourt lacking the lateral quickness to contain him. We are backing the Denver Nuggets -4.5 (Spread) as the superior offensive unit. Given both teams are missing primary defensive stoppers, the total should comfortably hit the over on 226.5 points.
Last 5 Games: DEN
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Memphis | W 122-116 | Jokic 26 | Jokic 15 | Jokic 11 |
| vs Cleveland | L 119-117 | Jokic 22 | Jokic 14 | Jokic 11 |
| @ Chicago | W 136-120 | Murray 28 | Jokic 14 | Jokic 17 |
| @ New York | L 134-127 2OT | Murray 39 | Jokic 14 | Jokic 10 |
| @ Detroit | L 124-121 | Murray 32 | Jokic 15 | Murray 8 |
Last 5 Games: LAC
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Houston | W 105-102 | Leonard 27 | Leonard 12 | Dunn 6 |
| @ Houston | L 102-95 | Leonard 24 | Leonard 8 | Dunn 7 |
| @ Minnesota | W 115-96 | Leonard 41 | Leonard 8 | Dunn 6 |
| @ Sacramento | W 114-111 | Leonard 31 | Leonard 9 | Leonard 7 |
| vs Cleveland | L 124-91 | Leonard 25 | Niederhauser 8 | Dunn 6 |
Written by Matt Dorsey
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.
