In an exciting match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Denver Nuggets achieved a crucial victory over the Thunder, with a final score of 119-107. This victory ensures that the series extends to a seventh and decisive game, which will be played in Oklahoma City.
The key player of the night was Jamal Murray, who, despite battling an illness since Wednesday, proved his worth by scoring 25 points. Murray ignited the Nuggets’ offense with a four-point play early in the game and continued his dominance with a crucial three-pointer at the start of the final quarter, extending Denver’s lead to double digits for the first time in the game.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with an outstanding performance of 29 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists. Christian Braun also had a memorable night, setting a playoff career-high with 23 points and 12 rebounds.
But the spark that truly fueled the Nuggets’ victory was Julian Strawther, who scored 15 points, all in the second half, also setting a personal playoff record. Strawther hit several three-pointers and a layup that helped Denver take a significant lead in the third quarter.
The Nuggets’ next challenge will be Game 7, where they will seek to secure their place in the next round. The winner will face the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have already secured their spot after defeating Golden State in five games.
A concern for the Nuggets is the injury to Aaron Gordon, who injured his left hamstring in the final minutes of the game.
On the Thunder’s side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led with 32 points, despite playing with four fouls since the second quarter. Chet Holmgren contributed 19 points, while Jalen Williams scored six points.
Even though Lu Dort hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer that gave the Thunder a 61-58 lead at halftime, the Nuggets managed to overcome a 12-point deficit with a 12-0 run in the final two minutes of the first half.
The Nuggets, seeking to repeat their success from two years ago, will finally enjoy two days of rest after weeks of intense competition. On the other hand, the Thunder has proven to be a resilient team, with only two consecutive losses this season.
