Thunder Shock Nuggets, Tie NBA Playoffs Series 2-2 After Game 4 Win

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Post on May 13, 2025

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Thunder Shock Nuggets, Tie NBA Playoffs Series 2-2 After Game 4 Win

The Oklahoma City Thunder delivered a stunning upset in Game 4 against the Denver Nuggets, tying their first-round NBA playoff series at 2-2. This electrifying victory showcased the Thunder's resilience and proved that their young roster is a force to be reckoned with. The 117-112 win sends a clear message: this series is far from over.

The atmosphere in Paycom Center was electric, fueled by the unexpected momentum shift. After dropping the first two games in Denver, many had already written off the Thunder. But a renewed focus on defense and a scorching hot offensive performance in Game 4 completely changed the narrative.

<h3>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads the Charge</h3>

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's undisputed star, once again led the way with a dominant performance. His 37 points, coupled with clutch plays down the stretch, solidified his status as a future MVP candidate. Gilgeous-Alexander's ability to consistently create scoring opportunities, even under intense pressure, was pivotal in securing the win. He wasn't alone, however.

<h3>Supporting Cast Steps Up</h3>

The supporting cast provided crucial contributions, showcasing the depth of the Thunder's roster. Josh Giddey's all-around game, including timely assists and crucial rebounds, complemented Gilgeous-Alexander's offensive prowess. Jalen Williams' defensive intensity and timely scoring bursts further highlighted the team's collective effort. The Nuggets struggled to contain the Thunder's balanced attack, a testament to the team's improved offensive fluidity and strategic adjustments.

<h3>Nuggets' Struggles and What's Next</h3>

The Nuggets, despite Nikola Jokic's usual impressive numbers (35 points, 14 rebounds), showed vulnerabilities. The Thunder effectively disrupted their offensive flow, forcing turnovers and limiting second-chance opportunities. The absence of Jamal Murray due to injury continues to be a significant factor impacting Denver’s overall performance and offensive capabilities. Their defensive lapses, particularly in the fourth quarter, allowed the Thunder to capitalize and seize the momentum.

The series now heads back to Denver for Game 5, where the Nuggets will look to regain control. However, the Thunder's Game 4 victory injected a massive dose of confidence into the team, proving their ability to compete with the Western Conference's top contenders.

<h3>Key Takeaways from Game 4:</h3>

• Thunder's Defensive Improvement: A significant shift in defensive intensity was evident, effectively limiting the Nuggets' offensive output.
• Gilgeous-Alexander's Dominance: His consistent scoring and clutch plays were critical to the Thunder's success.
• Nuggets' Offensive Vulnerability: The absence of Murray and defensive lapses exposed vulnerabilities in the Nuggets' game plan.
• Series Momentum Shift: The win shifts the series momentum decisively in the Thunder's favor heading into Game 5.

The NBA Playoffs just got a whole lot more interesting. The Thunder’s unexpected victory has injected new life into the series, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion. The question now is: can the Thunder maintain this momentum and pull off an even bigger upset? Only time will tell. The next game is a must-win for the Nuggets, but the Thunder are proving that they’re more than capable of challenging the top teams in the league. This series is a must-watch for any NBA fan.