In an electrifying showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Denver Nuggets narrowly defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 113-104 in a gripping Game 3 of their NBA playoff series on May 10, 2025. This victory gave the Nuggets a crucial 2-1 lead in the series, showcasing their resilience after a devastating loss in the previous game.
The Nuggets entered this game after suffering a staggering 43-point defeat in Game 2, a game that left them reeling and in need of a turnaround. The Thunder, on the other hand, came into this match with a significant amount of momentum, having showcased their offensive prowess in the previous game. However, the Nuggets were determined to reclaim their home court advantage.
From the tip-off, it was clear that both teams were ready to battle fiercely. The Thunder initially took control, leveraging their fast-paced offense to establish a 9-point lead within the first five minutes. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's star guard, was instrumental in their early success, scoring 13 points in the first quarter alone.
Despite the Thunder's early dominance, the Nuggets fought back. With Nikola Jokic on the floor, they adjusted their strategy, opting for a smaller lineup during Jokic's rest periods, allowing Russell Westbrook to drive the offense. This shift paid off as the Nuggets managed to cut the deficit and even took the lead before halftime, finishing the second quarter ahead 56-51.
However, both Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander struggled in the first half, combining for only 4-of-17 shooting. Jokic, in particular, faced foul trouble early in the game, which hampered his performance. As the game progressed, the stakes heightened, and the tension in the arena was palpable.
The second half saw a back-and-forth battle as both teams exchanged leads. The game reached its climax in the final minutes of regulation. With 2:14 left on the clock, Jamal Murray hit a crucial mid-range jumper to give the Nuggets a slight edge. But the Thunder responded swiftly, with Jalen Williams sinking a three-pointer that put Oklahoma City ahead by three points with just over a minute remaining.
In a dramatic turn of events, Aaron Gordon, who had been a key player for the Nuggets, hit a three-pointer with just 28 seconds remaining to tie the game at 102-102. The Nuggets had a chance to win it in regulation; however, Jokic's potential game-winning shot fell short, sending the contest into overtime.
Overtime began with the Nuggets seizing the momentum. They quickly built a 7-point lead thanks to contributions from Jokic, Michael Porter Jr., and Murray. The Thunder, despite their best efforts to rally back, could not overcome the deficit. The final buzzer sounded with the Nuggets emerging victorious, 113-104.
Jalen Williams shone for the Thunder, scoring a playoff career-high 32 points, while Chet Holmgren added 18 points, 16 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Despite a solid performance, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggled with his shooting, finishing the game with 18 points on 7-of-22 shooting.
For the Nuggets, Jamal Murray played a pivotal role, logging 48 minutes and contributing 27 points along with 8 assists. Aaron Gordon also made significant contributions, scoring 22 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Nikola Jokic, despite his earlier struggles, finished with 20 points, 16 rebounds, and 6 assists.
The Thunder's performance in this game highlighted their depth, with seven players averaging double-digit points in the playoffs. However, the Nuggets' victory showcased their ability to adapt and overcome adversity, a trait that will be crucial as the series progresses.
As the series moves back to Oklahoma City for Game 4, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strengths. The Thunder will need to find a way to contain Jokic and reduce their turnovers, while the Nuggets must maintain their momentum and continue to capitalize on their offensive opportunities.
With the series now at 2-1 in favor of the Nuggets, the stakes couldn't be higher. Each game is critical, and both teams are fully aware that every possession matters in the pursuit of playoff glory. Fans can expect nothing less than a fierce contest as the Thunder look to even the series and the Nuggets aim to take a commanding lead.
