NBA Playoffs: Dismal Start Sinks Nuggets; Thunder Secure Game 4 Win

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Post on May 12, 2025

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NBA Playoffs: Dismal Start Sinks Nuggets; Thunder Secure Game 4 Win

The Oklahoma City Thunder roared back from a slow start to snatch a crucial Game 4 victory against the Denver Nuggets, evening their first-round playoff series at 2-2. A disastrous opening quarter for the Nuggets proved insurmountable, leaving them with a bitter 118-102 defeat and a significant shift in momentum heading into Game 5.

A Nightmare First Quarter for Denver

The Nuggets' offensive struggles in the first quarter were nothing short of catastrophic. They shot a dismal 25% from the field and allowed the Thunder to build a commanding 31-17 lead. This early deficit proved too large to overcome, despite a valiant effort from Nikola Jokic in the latter stages of the game. The Thunder's aggressive defense, effectively shutting down Denver's perimeter game, played a key role in establishing this early dominance.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads the Thunder Charge

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his stellar playoff performance, leading the Thunder with 31 points, showcasing his exceptional scoring ability and proving to be a consistent threat throughout the game. His scoring prowess, coupled with the team's overall improved performance on both ends of the court, proved decisive in securing the victory. The supporting cast also played a vital role, with Josh Giddey providing crucial assists and strong defense.

Jokic's Heroics Not Enough for Denver

Despite a triple-double performance from Nikola Jokic (30 points, 10 rebounds, 12 assists), the Nuggets were unable to overcome their early deficit. While Jokic's individual brilliance was undeniable, the team's overall struggles, particularly in the first quarter, proved too significant to overcome. The lack of consistent support from other key players left Jokic carrying an unsustainable burden.

Turning Point and Key Takeaways

The game's turning point undeniably occurred in that disastrous first quarter. The Thunder's early lead allowed them to dictate the pace and control the flow of the game. This victory highlights the importance of a strong start in playoff basketball, where momentum can be a decisive factor. The Nuggets will need to drastically improve their opening-quarter performance to avoid falling behind in this intensely competitive series.

Looking Ahead to Game 5:

Game 5 promises to be a pivotal moment in the series. The Thunder's win has injected new life into their campaign, while the Nuggets face the pressure of needing to regain control. Expect adjustments from both teams, with the Nuggets aiming to address their early-game struggles and the Thunder looking to maintain their momentum and secure a crucial road win. The series is now truly up for grabs, with each team possessing the capability of winning the series. The question remains: Can the Nuggets overcome their inconsistent start and regain the series lead, or will the Thunder capitalize on their newfound momentum?

Key Keywords: NBA Playoffs, Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, Game 4, Game 5, Playoffs, NBA, Basketball, Sports News