The Denver Nuggets refused to back down. Facing elimination in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals, they delivered a 119-107 victory over the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, forcing a decisive Game 7.
Nikola Jokić led the charge, putting up 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists, proving once again why he’s one of the most dominant players in the league. Jamal Murray, battling an illness, showed incredible resilience, contributing 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists despite being a game-time decision.
Denver’s supporting cast stepped up in a big way. Christian Braun recorded a double-double with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Julian Strawther emerged as an unexpected hero off the bench, scoring 15 points, including clutch three-pointers that helped Denver pull away in the second half.
For Oklahoma City, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander did everything he could, finishing with 32 points, but the Thunder struggled to match Denver’s intensity down the stretch. Chet Holmgren added 19 points, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the Nuggets from extending the series.
With the series now tied 3-3, the teams will battle for a spot in the Western Conference Finals in Game 7 at Paycom Center on May 19. The winner will face the Minnesota Timberwolves, who eliminated the Golden State Warriors in five games.
Denver has proven they can rise to the occasion when their backs are against the wall. Now, the question remains—can they complete the comeback and punch their ticket to the next round? \
