Thunder vs. Nuggets Score: Denver Forces Pivotal Game 7 Thanks to Big Lift from Nikola Jokić’s Supporting Cast

🏀 A Mile-High Resurgence: Nuggets Beat Thunder 119-107 to Tie Series

In what turned out to be a do-or-die showdown at Ball Arena, the Denver Nuggets overcame the Oklahoma City Thunder 119-107 in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals, tying the series at 3-3 and forcing a blockbuster Game 7.

According to CBS Sports and BBC Sport, the defending champions avoided elimination thanks to a revitalized supporting cast around star center Nikola Jokić, who delivered another MVP-worthy performance with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists. While Jokić set the tempo, it was the bench and role players who stepped up when it mattered most.

🧱 Supporting Cast Steps Up When Needed Most

🎯 Jamal Murray – The Silent Warrior

Despite battling flu-like symptoms, Jamal Murray logged 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. His late-game heroics, including a pair of clutch three-pointers, helped seal the win. As reported by CNN Sports, Murray’s leadership and resilience continue to inspire the locker room.

“I couldn’t leave my guys hanging,” Murray said postgame, visibly fatigued but fired up.

(CNN)

🌟 Christian Braun & Julian Strawther – X-Factors

The unexpected surge came from Christian Braun, who posted a double-double (23 points, 11 rebounds), and Julian Strawther, whose 15 points in the second half gave Denver the edge during critical stretches. ESPN praised their “energy injection” that flipped momentum when OKC briefly led in the third quarter.

📉 Thunder’s Strong Start Fizzles Out

🔥 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Carries the Load

The Thunder started strong, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 32-point effort. However, without sufficient help from role players like Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey, OKC couldn’t keep pace with Denver’s fourth-quarter push.

🚨 Turnovers & Missed Opportunities

OKC’s 15 turnovers and poor 3-point shooting (9-for-29) proved costly. According to analysts on Bleacher Report, the team looked “visibly rattled” once Denver’s defense tightened.

🧠 Tactical Adjustments by Coach Michael Malone

Denver coach Michael Malone deserves credit for making pivotal halftime changes. Switching defensive matchups and increasing bench rotations allowed the Nuggets to outscore OKC 62-47 in the second half. As covered by NBC Sports, Malone’s strategic flexibility was key to neutralizing OKC’s fast-break offense.

🎙️ Expert Commentary & Fan Reactions

Charles Barkley (TNT Sports): “This is why Denver are champions. When their backs are against the wall, they play with heart.”
Fans on X (formerly Twitter): “Braun and Strawther saved our season tonight. This is the real Nuggets identity!”

📅 Game 7: The Decider in OKC

Game 7 is set for Sunday, May 19, 2025, at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. Both teams have everything to fight for — a ticket to the Western Conference Finals and a shot at NBA glory.

⏰ Game Time & Where to Watch:

Time: 8:30 PM ET
Network: TNT, NBA League Pass
Streaming: ESPN+, SlingTV, and YouTube TV

🔍 Key Stats Snapshot – Game 6

Player	Points	Rebounds	Assists
Nikola Jokić	29	14	6
Jamal Murray	25	8	7
Christian Braun	23	11	2
Julian Strawther	15	4	1
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander	32	6	5

✅ Conclusion: Nuggets’ Depth Makes the Difference

Denver’s Game 6 win wasn’t just about star power — it was about depth, hustle, and heart. With Game 7 looming, the Thunder must regroup quickly while the Nuggets aim to carry this momentum into one of the biggest games of the postseason.

Whether you’re a Denver die-hard or OKC faithful, Game 7 promises fireworks.

Thunder vs. Nuggets Score: Nikola Jokić’s.