The Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets will meet each other in their second semifinal matchup at Paycom Center on Wednesday, May 7
Following an impactful victory with a record of 4-0, the Western Conference’s top team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, suffered in the semifinal game 1, beaten by the Denver Nuggets with 121-119, after blowing a 14-point second-half lead and a nine-point advantage late in the game. Despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s crucial contribution of 33 points, they struggled in the final moments, making only one field goal.
However, late-game errors such as missing free throws and strategic fouls proved costly. Even though Alex Caruso’s strong stats of 20 points, six assists, five steals, and two blocks, the Thunder’s first semifinal loss highlighted their poor performance in late-game execution.
On the other hand, the fourth-seeded Denver Nuggets, having a close and significant first-round series victory with 4-3, secured their upper hand in the beginning of the semifinal round with a 19-6 run on the road.
Nikola Jokic demonstrated a powerful offense with 42 points, including 11 in the last few minutes, and Aaron Gordon contributed the winning three-point shot with an assist from Russell Westbrook.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets Game 2: Prediction
The upcoming second showdown expects the Thunder to bounce back with urgency, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s strong offensive approach and facilitating better late-game scoring. Chet Holmgren will look to come out with a strong defensive showing and improved efficiency at the line.
Meanwhile, Denver will again rely on their key player Nikola Jokic’s brilliance on the court, supported by Aaron Gordon’s confidence in shooting and solid defense. The game is expected to be a tough contest with lots of scores on the board.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets Game 2: Probable Starting Lineups
Nuggets
- PG – Jamal Murray
- SF – Michael Porter Jr.
- SG – Christian Braun
- PF – Aaron Gordon
- C – Nikola Jokic
Thunder
- PG – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
- SG – Luguentz Dort
- SF – Jalen Williams
- PF – Chet Holmgren
- C – Isaiah Hartenstein
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets Game 2: Injury Updates
Nuggets
- DaRon Holmes: Out For Season (Achilles)
Thunder
- Nikola Topic (knee)