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The 2025 NBA Western Conference Semifinals between the Nuggets vs Thunder has evolved into a captivating series, showcasing the resilience, strategy, and star power of both teams. With the series tied at 2-2, each game has unfolded as a unique narrative, reflecting the intense competition and tactical adjustments made by both sides.
Game 1: Nuggets vs Thunder (Nuggets Steal the Show in Oklahoma City)
In the series opener, the Nuggets managed a dramatic 121-119 victory over the Thunder. Nikola Jokić delivered a stellar performance with 42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists, becoming the fifth player in NBA history to achieve such a stat line in a playoff game. The game culminated in a clutch three-pointer by Aaron Gordon, assisted by Russell Westbrook, sealing the win for Denver.
Game 2: Nuggets vs Thunder (Thunder Respond with Historic Offensive Display)
The Thunder bounced back emphatically in Game 2, routing the Nuggets 149-106. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 34 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds, shooting an impressive 11-of-13 from the field. Oklahoma City set a franchise playoff record with 87 first-half points and led by as many as 48 points during the game. Denver’s Jokić struggled, fouling out in the third quarter with 17 points.
Game 3: Nuggets vs Thunder (Nuggets Regain Lead in Overtime Thriller)
Returning to Denver, the Nuggets secured a 113-104 overtime victory in Game 3. Jamal Murray led with 27 points, while Jokić contributed 20 points and 16 rebounds. Aaron Gordon’s game-tying three-pointer forced overtime, where Denver outscored Oklahoma City 11-2. The Thunder’s offense faltered in the extra period, shooting just 1-for-7.
Game 4: Nuggets vs Thunder (Thunder Even the Series with Defensive Mastery)
In Game 4, the Thunder showcased their defensive prowess, defeating the Nuggets 92-87. Gilgeous-Alexander led with 25 points, supported by Aaron Wiggins and Cason Wallace, who added 11 each. Oklahoma City’s defense held Denver to a season-low 87 points and capitalized on an 8-point fourth-quarter deficit with a 14-3 run. Jokić’s 27 points and 13 rebounds weren’t enough as the Nuggets’ offense sputtered late.
Series Analysis: A Clash of Titans
The series has been marked by dramatic momentum shifts, with both teams demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Jokić’s dominance in Game 1 and Murray’s clutch performance in Game 3 have been pivotal for Denver. For Oklahoma City, Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistency and the bench’s contributions in Game 4 have been crucial. Coaching strategies, such as the Thunder’s decision to foul late in Game 1, have significantly impacted outcomes.
Looking Ahead: Pivotal Game 5
With the series tied at 2-2, Game 5 is set to be a critical juncture. Both teams will need to leverage their strengths and address weaknesses to gain the upper hand in this tightly contested series. The Nuggets will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage, while the Thunder aim to continue their defensive dominance.
Summary: Nuggets vs Thunder – First Four Games of the Western Conference Semifinals
The 2025 Western Conference Semifinals between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder is tied at 2-2, with each game offering dramatic swings and standout performances.
- Game 1: Denver escaped with a narrow 121–119 win, thanks to Nikola Jokić’s 42-point, 22-rebound night and a clutch game-winning three from Aaron Gordon.
- Game 2: The Thunder responded with a 149–106 blowout, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 34 points. OKC set a franchise playoff record with 87 first-half points.
- Game 3: Back in Denver, the Nuggets won 113–104 in overtime, with Jamal Murray leading the charge and Gordon forcing OT with another clutch three.
- Game 4: Oklahoma City evened the series 92–87, riding tough defense and a late 14–3 fourth-quarter run. Gilgeous-Alexander again led with 25 points.
Both teams have shown grit and the ability to adapt. Game 5 will be pivotal, as Denver leans on home-court advantage and OKC looks to build on its defensive momentum.
