The Oklahoma City Thunder will welcome the Denver Nuggets in their final matchup of the semifinal round at Paycom Center on Sunday, May 18.
The top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder was about to close out the series after gaining a 3-2 lead in game 5, but couldn’t make it successful as they trailed by 107-119, resulting in the series being tied once again. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made a game high 32 points while Jalen Williams struggled, shooting just 3-of-16 for 6 points. Despite their regular season consistency, the Thunder are heading towards their first win-or-go-home playoff game on Sunday.
On the other hand, facing elimination, the Denver Nuggets made a significant bounce back with a return win, forcing their opponent to game 7. Jamal Murray scored 25 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists in overcoming his illness, and Nikola Jokic scored 29 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists, leading the Nuggets to an easy win. However, Christian Braun contributed a playoff-high 23 points, while Julian Strawther’s 15 second-half points sparked the show.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets Game 7: Prediction
Game 7 between the Thunder and the Nuggets brings high anticipation, with the series tied. Both teams showcased their dominance throughout the series. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will likely lead the Thunder’s offensive play. At the same time, Jalen Williams will need to bounce back with an impact for the Thunder to advance.
Meanwhile, Denver will rely on Nikola Jokic’s all-around excellence and Jamal Murray’s strong shooting on the court. This highly contested battle is mostly dependent on the final time execution and who remains calm in the Game 7 high-pressure atmosphere.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets Game 7: Probable Starting Lineups
Nuggets
- PG- Jamal Murray
- SF- Michael Porter Jr.
- SG- Christian Braun
- PF- Aaron Gordon (DD)
- 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 7: Injury Updates
Thunder
- Nikola Topic (knee)
Nuggets
- Hunter Tyson (ankle)
- Aaron Gordon (Day to Day)
- DaRon Holmes: Out For Season (Achilles)