LA Clippers vs Denver Nuggets Prediction: Combined Starting 5 featuring Kawhi Leonard and Nikola Jokic

Power Forward - Paul George (Los Angeles Clippers)

Los Angeles Clippers v Los Angeles Lakers

Yet another easy pick, George gets the edge over Nuggets power forward Paul Millsap. George got a lot of bad press for his lackluster performance in the Clippers' playoffs run during this past postseason. However, despite what the media says, he remains one of the best two-way players in the NBA. One of the most skilled offensive players in the league currently, George creates his own shot with ease and fluidity and plays tenacious defense.

Millsap is one of the more underrated players in the league. A 15-year veteran, Millsap has averaged in the double-digit for points per game in 13 of his last 15 seasons. Despite that remarkable consistency, he remains inferior to the supremely talented George.

Center - Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)

Sacramento Kings v Denver Nuggets

To round out the starting five, Jokic beats out Clippers center Serge Ibaka. This should come as no surprise as Jokic has been one of the best centers in the league since being drafted in 2014. “The Joker” is easily the best passing center in the entire league. His size commands a lot of defensive attention, which allows him to find open shooters on the perimeter frequently.

Ibaka is one of the more underrated players in the league as well. He played a crucial role for the championship Toronto Raptors team and is now teamed up with Kawhi Leonard in Los Angeles after joining this past offseason.