Los Angeles leaned on its veterans in the win, and they delivered a pair of vintage performances. James Harden, who struggled in Game 5 with just 11 points, put up 28 points, eight assists and six rebounds. Kawhi Leonard was equally as important with 27 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.

The coach said he “took a lot of temperatures,” making sure they were mentally ready to fight for their playoff lives.In Game 6, the Clippers answered his call.James Harden had 28 points and eight assists in an outstanding bounce-back performance,

This same scenario hit Denver a year ago with Minnesota, but the Nuggets are looking for a different outcome this time.