The 2025 NBA Playoffs are in full swing, and the series between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder just took a dramatic turn. After a thrilling Game 1 win for the Nuggets, Denver was blown out in Game 2, falling to the Thunder by a staggering 43 points. The final score, 149-106, is not just a defeat—it’s a wake-up call. The Nuggets head back to Denver with the series tied at 1-1, and the pressure is now on to regain control on their home court.
Nikola Jokić, the reigning two-time MVP, had a rough outing by his standards. While he still contributed a respectable 18 points and 12 rebounds, he was largely neutralized by Oklahoma City’s defense, which was swarming him with double-teams and making it difficult for him to operate in the post. The Thunder also took advantage of Jokić’s struggles on defense, exploiting mismatches and putting him in uncomfortable positions. Denver couldn’t generate consistent offense in the halfcourt, and as the game wore on, it became clear that the Nuggets were out of answers.
The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, took full advantage of the opportunity. Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s been on fire this postseason, finished with 35 points and 9 assists, showing once again why he’s one of the brightest young stars in the NBA. Williams added 28 points, showcasing his scoring versatility and ability to stretch the floor. The duo was unstoppable, and even when the Nuggets tried to make a push in the second quarter, Oklahoma City responded with a barrage of three-pointers to close the door.
It wasn’t just the Thunder’s offense that dominated—their defense was equally impressive. Lu Dort did a fantastic job locking down Denver’s perimeter shooters, while Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams provided rim protection that made it difficult for the Nuggets to attack the basket. Denver’s lack of ball movement and stagnant offense was a glaring weakness, and the Thunder capitalized on every mistake.
As the game wound down, the Thunder had built up a commanding 30-point lead by the third quarter, and it was clear the Nuggets were never going to recover. Coach Michael Malone will have plenty of film to dissect after this one, but one thing is certain: adjustments need to be made before the series shifts back to Denver.
For Denver, Game 3 will be crucial. The Nuggets have shown they’re capable of bouncing back from tough losses, but this one stings. Jokić will need more support from his teammates, and the team’s defense will have to improve drastically. Oklahoma City has proven they can dominate, and if the Nuggets aren’t careful, this series could slip away from them.
The road to the Finals is never easy, and with the series now tied at 1-1, the next chapter of this series is sure to be filled with drama, intensity, and everything that makes the NBA Playoffs so thrilling.
