Nuggets' Dismal Start Costs Them Game 4: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Fuels Thunder Comeback

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Post on May 13, 2025

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Nuggets' Dismal Start Costs Them Game 4: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Fuels Thunder Comeback

The Denver Nuggets' promising playoff run hit a significant snag last night as they suffered a crushing 120-110 defeat against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4. A disastrous start, coupled with a dominant performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, proved too much for the Nuggets to overcome, leaving the series at a precarious 3-1. The question now hangs heavy: can the Nuggets regroup and avoid a monumental upset?

A Slow Start Dooms Denver

The game's narrative was set early. The Nuggets, known for their offensive firepower led by Nikola Jokic, appeared sluggish and disengaged in the opening quarter. Their usually potent offense sputtered, allowing the Thunder to build a comfortable lead they wouldn't relinquish. This slow start, characterized by missed shots and defensive lapses, ultimately set the tone for the entire game. The lack of early energy was a stark contrast to their previous performances and proved to be a decisive factor in their defeat.

Gilgeous-Alexander's Masterclass

While the Nuggets struggled, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander orchestrated a masterful performance, showcasing the brilliance that has defined his breakout season. He relentlessly attacked the basket, showcasing his exceptional scoring ability with a game-high 31 points. His efficiency, combined with his knack for creating scoring opportunities for his teammates, proved insurmountable for the Nuggets' defense. Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance serves as a testament to his rising star status and a major reason for the Thunder’s unexpected playoff success.

Jokic's Struggles and the Supporting Cast

Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, had a relatively quiet night by his standards. While he still managed a double-double, his usual dominance was noticeably absent. The Thunder successfully implemented a strategy that limited Jokic's impact on the game, forcing the supporting cast to shoulder more responsibility. Unfortunately, that supporting cast struggled to consistently deliver, leaving Jokic isolated and less effective. Jamal Murray, who had been instrumental in Denver's earlier wins, also had an off night, failing to provide the scoring punch needed to counter Gilgeous-Alexander.

Looking Ahead: Can the Nuggets Recover?

The Nuggets now face a pivotal Game 5 back in Denver. The pressure is on to regain their composure and rediscover the offensive rhythm that propelled them to a 3-0 series lead. They need to address their slow starts, improve defensive intensity, and ensure that Jokic receives the necessary support to effectively lead the team. A return to their earlier form is crucial to prevent a stunning upset and avoid a potentially embarrassing series loss. The Thunder, energized by their Game 4 victory and spearheaded by Gilgeous-Alexander, will be ready to fight for every possession.

Key Takeaways:

• Slow Starts are Deadly: The Nuggets' slow starts have proven costly in this series. Addressing this issue is paramount for their success.
• Gilgeous-Alexander's Impact: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's performance highlighted his exceptional talent and cemented his status as a future NBA superstar.
• Supporting Cast Needs to Step Up: The Nuggets' supporting cast needs to provide more consistent scoring and defensive support for Jokic.
• Series Momentum Shift: Game 4's loss significantly shifted the series momentum in favor of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The NBA playoffs are full of unexpected twists, and this series is proving to be no exception. The coming days will determine if the Nuggets can overcome adversity or if the Thunder can pull off one of the most remarkable upsets in recent playoff history. The focus now shifts to Game 5—a must-win for Denver to avoid a collapse and maintain their playoff hopes.