After the Nuggets stole Game 1 on the road thanks to Nikola Jokić’s historic night, the Thunder responded with a record-setting blowout in Game 2, sending a message that this series is far from over.

Nikola Jokić was at the heart of Game 1, delivering a record-breaking stat line: 42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists, becoming only the fifth player in NBA history to record at least 40 points, 20 rebounds, and 5 assists in a playoff game.

Aaron Gordon played the hero, knocking down a clutch three-pointer with 2.8 seconds left to seal a 121-119 victory for the Nuggets. Despite shooting just 31% from deep and getting little from Michael Porter Jr., Denver’s championship experience and Jokić’s brilliance proved decisive, handing the Thunder their first loss of the postseason.

Game 2: Oklahoma City Delivers a Statement Win

If Game 1 was a showcase for Denver’s resilience, Game 2 was all about Oklahoma City’s firepower and focus. The Thunder came out with a vengeance, erupting for 45 first-quarter points while shooting over 71% from the field—a franchise playoff record.

By halftime, they had piled up 87 points, setting a new NBA postseason record for points in a half and leading by 31. The onslaught continued after the break, with the Thunder stretching their lead to as much as 49 points before finishing with a 149-106 victory.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable, scoring 34 points on 11-of-13 shooting and finishing with a +51 plus-minus in just 30 minutes. Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren also contributed in double figures, while Oklahoma City’s defense swarmed the Nuggets at every turn.

The game was marred by frustration for Denver. Russell Westbrook, who entered as a reserve, was booed by Thunder fans and later assessed a technical foul, which only fueled the Thunder’s momentum. 

Jokić’s Effort Not Enough in Game 2

Despite the lopsided score, Nikola Jokić still managed to put up numbers, finishing with 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists before fouling out late in the third quarter. However, the Thunder’s defensive adjustments limited his impact, and Denver’s supporting cast never found a rhythm. Westbrook led the Nuggets with 19 points, but the team as a whole struggled to keep pace with Oklahoma City’s relentless attack.

With the series tied at 1-1, both teams head to Denver for Game 3 on Friday, May 9. After two games, it is clear this series is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and record-breaking matchups of the postseason.