NBA Playoffs: Thunder Even Series After Nuggets' Game 4 Collapse

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Post on May 12, 2025

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NBA Playoffs: Thunder Even Series After Nuggets' Game 4 Collapse

The Oklahoma City Thunder have evened their first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets after a stunning Game 4 collapse by the higher-seeded Nuggets. The 120-114 victory for the Thunder sends the series back to Denver tied 2-2, injecting a thrilling dose of uncertainty into a matchup many predicted would be a swift Nuggets victory. This unexpected turnaround has ignited a firestorm of debate about the Nuggets’ vulnerability and the Thunder's surprising resilience.

Nuggets' Late-Game Meltdown Costs Them Dearly

Denver, boasting a formidable regular season record and the home-court advantage, looked poised to take a commanding 3-1 lead. They held a double-digit lead heading into the fourth quarter, a seemingly insurmountable advantage in the playoffs. However, a spectacular offensive surge by the Thunder, coupled with a shocking series of turnovers and missed shots by the Nuggets, completely flipped the script. The final minutes saw Denver unravel, with key players struggling to execute under pressure. This late-game collapse highlighted a potential weakness in the Nuggets' otherwise impressive game. The question now looms large: can the Nuggets regain their composure and prevent a similar implosion in the remaining games?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Thunder's Resurgence

The Thunder's success wasn't solely a result of the Nuggets' struggles. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's star point guard, delivered a masterful performance, showcasing his exceptional scoring ability and clutch playmaking. His 37 points, coupled with crucial assists and steals, underscored his impact on the game. The Thunder's overall team effort also deserves commendation; role players stepped up, contributing vital points and defensive stops when it mattered most. This collective effort is a testament to the Thunder's improved team chemistry and coaching strategies.

Key Takeaways from Game 4:

• Nuggets' Fourth-Quarter Vulnerability: The Nuggets' inability to close out Game 4 raises significant concerns about their mental fortitude in high-pressure situations.
• Gilgeous-Alexander's Dominance: SGA's performance solidified his status as one of the NBA's elite players. His ability to consistently perform under pressure will be crucial for the Thunder's continued success.
• Thunder's Improved Depth: The supporting cast around Gilgeous-Alexander showcased improved consistency, highlighting the Thunder's growth as a team.
• Series Momentum Shift: The win has undeniably shifted the series momentum in favor of the Thunder. The pressure is now firmly on the Nuggets to regain control.

Looking Ahead: A Series on a Knife's Edge

The series now heads back to Denver for Game 5, a pivotal matchup that could determine the series' outcome. The Nuggets will need to address their late-game issues and rediscover their offensive rhythm. Meanwhile, the Thunder will aim to capitalize on their newfound momentum and continue to exploit the Nuggets’ vulnerabilities. This unexpected shift in momentum has made the series one of the most captivating storylines of the NBA playoffs, promising an exhilarating conclusion. The question remains: can the underdogs continue to upset the odds, or will the Nuggets reclaim their dominance? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling series unfolds.