LA Clippers Edge Golden State Warriors in Overtime Classic, Locking in NBA Playoff Seeds
The 2024-25 NBA regular season ended with a bang on April 13, 2025, as the LA Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors matchup delivered a heart-pounding overtime showdown that decided the final Western Conference playoff seeds. Fans searching for where to watch LA Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors or checking NBA scores today were treated to a game that epitomized playoff intensity, with Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers outlasting the Warriors in a 115-111 nail-biter. Here’s everything you need to know about the Warriors vs. Clippers clash, including LA Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors match player stats, key moments, and what it means for the NBA games ahead.
The Game: Clippers-Warriors Goes Down to the Wire
The Golden State Warriors vs. LA Clippers game was the marquee event of the NBA’s final regular-season day, with both teams vying for a top-six seed to avoid the Play-In Tournament. The Clippers-Warriors matchup lived up to the hype, as Kawhi Leonard and James Harden combined for 71 points, including nine three-pointers, to lead the LA Clippers to victory. Leonard’s clutch performance underscored why he’s a playoff nightmare, while Harden’s free throws sealed the deal in overtime.
The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler, fought valiantly, amassing 66 points between them. However, a missed shot by Buddy Hield in the final seconds of regulation sent the game to overtime, where the Clippers capitalized. Kris Dunn’s defensive prowess, particularly against Denver’s Jamal Murray in hypothetical matchups, was noted as a key factor for the Clippers’ playoff readiness, though his impact in this game was more subtle. The Warriors vs. Clippers timeline saw momentum swing wildly, with the Clippers trailing 33-25 after the first quarter before a gritty comeback.
LA Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors match player stats tell the story of a balanced attack:
- Kawhi Leonard (Clippers): 36 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 4-for-7 from three
- James Harden (Clippers): 35 points, 8 assists, 5-for-8 from three
- Stephen Curry (Warriors): 34 points, 6 assists, 5-for-12 from three
- Jimmy Butler (Warriors): 32 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals
Posts on X captured the intensity, with fans noting turnovers and defensive lapses early on, particularly during a rough bench run for the Clippers. One user highlighted coach Tyronn Lue’s decision not to call a timeout after a Leonard steal, which nearly cost them in a critical moment. Ultimately, the Clippers secured the No. 5 seed, setting up a first-round clash with the Denver Nuggets, while the Golden State Warriors dropped to the Play-In, facing the Grizzlies next.
Playoff Picture Takes Shape
The Warriors-Clippers game wasn’t the only drama on the NBA’s final day. NBA scores across the league finalized the playoff bracket:
- Minnesota Timberwolves earned the No. 6 seed with a win over Utah, facing the Lakers in the first round.
- Denver Nuggets locked in the No. 4 seed with a 126-111 rout of Houston, led by Michael Porter Jr. (19 points) and Nikola Jokić (18 points).
- Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings settled into the 9th and 10th spots, respectively, with Dallas resting stars like Luka Dončić in a 132-97 loss to Memphis.
The GSW vs. Clippers outcome sent ripples through the Western Conference. The Warriors’ late-season surge, fueled by Butler’s acquisition at the trade deadline, wasn’t enough to avoid the Play-In, raising questions about their postseason viability. Meanwhile, the LA Clippers solidified their status as a contender, with analysts praising Lue’s playoff coaching and Leonard’s two-way dominance.
Where to Watch and Stream
For those wondering where to watch Golden State Warriors vs. LA Clippers or seeking an NBA stream, the game aired on TNT and was available on NBA League Pass for out-of-market viewers. Streaming services like Fubo offered live coverage, ensuring fans didn’t miss a second of the Clippers vs. Warriors action. Check local listings for playoff games, as the Warriors and Clippers now shift focus to their postseason journeys.
What’s Next for Warriors and Clippers?
The Golden State Warriors games take a precarious turn as they head to the Play-In Tournament. Facing Memphis at home, the GS Warriors will need Curry’s magic and Butler’s grit to secure a playoff spot. Coach Steve Kerr, who’s long argued that 82 games are too many, now faces the challenge of rallying his team for a do-or-die matchup.
The LA Clippers, meanwhile, are riding high. Their Clippers game against Denver promises a tactical battle, with Dunn potentially tasked with slowing Murray and Leonard matching up against Jokić. The Clippers-Warriors rivalry added another chapter to its storied history, and if both teams advance, a playoff rematch could loom.
Why It Matters
The LA Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors finale wasn’t just about NBA scores—it was a microcosm of the league’s competitive depth. From Leonard’s heroics to Curry’s resilience, the game showcased stars at their peak. As the Clippers and Warriors pivot to the postseason, fans are already buzzing about potential LAC vs. GSW clashes down the line. For now, the Clippers celebrate a hard-fought win, while the Warriors regroup for a tougher road ahead.
Stay tuned to TDU Sports for live updates, expert analysis, and the latest on the NBA playoffs.