The Denver Nuggets had Game 5 in their grasp. Leading 90-81 with 10:11 remaining, they looked poised to steal a crucial road win against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Then, everything unraveled. Denver mustered just 19 points in the fourth quarter, going seven minutes without a field goal, allowing Oklahoma City to storm back for a 112-105 victory. The loss puts the Nuggets on the brink of elimination, trailing 3-2 in the Western Conference Semifinals.
Since taking over as Denver’s interim head coach, David Adelman has faced scrutiny over his ability to manage high-pressure moments. Game 5 was his biggest test yet—and he failed it.
With the Nuggets struggling offensively, Adelman failed to adjust, leaving Denver’s offense stagnant while OKC capitalized on defensive lapses. His rotations lacked urgency, and his inability to counter Oklahoma City’s late-game adjustments proved costly.
While Nikola Jokić delivered a 44-point, 15-rebound masterclass, his supporting cast failed to step up. Russell Westbrook shot 1-for-7, finishing with just 4 points and 2 turnovers, struggling to find rhythm against OKC’s defense. Michael Porter Jr. was even worse, scoring just 2 points on 1-for-7 shooting, disappearing when Denver needed him most.
With Jamal Murray carrying the scoring load in the third quarter, Denver needed Westbrook and MPJ to contribute late—but neither delivered.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his MVP-caliber postseason, scoring 31 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. Jalen Williams (18 points) and Isaiah Hartenstein (15 points) provided crucial support, helping OKC outscore Denver 34-19 in the fourth quarter.
With Game 6 set for Thursday in Denver, the Nuggets must regroup quickly. Adelman’s coaching decisions, Westbrook’s inefficiency, and MPJ’s disappearing act have put them in a precarious position.
If Denver can’t fix its late-game execution, Oklahoma City could close out the series and advance to the Western Conference Finals.
