The Oklahoma City Thunder restored order in the NBA playoffs with a stunning performance in Game 2 of their second-round series against the Denver Nuggets, winning decisively 149-106 on May 7, 2025. This victory not only tied the series at 1-1 but also marked the first time a home team won in the second round this postseason.
In a game that saw the Thunder break records, they lit up the scoreboard with a playoff-record 87 points in the first half, surpassing the previous record of 86 set by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2017 Finals. The Thunder's offensive display was nothing short of extraordinary, shooting 58.8% from the field and 43.5% from beyond the arc in the first half alone.
Oklahoma City established an early lead, going up by as much as 35 points, with a commanding 84-49 advantage late in the second quarter. By halftime, the Thunder had a comfortable 87-56 lead, showcasing their depth and offensive prowess. Their 149 points set a new franchise record for the playoffs, coming just eight points shy of the all-time playoff record of 157 points set by the Boston Celtics in 1990.
Leading the charge for the Thunder was MVP finalist Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who delivered a game-high 34 points and added eight assists. His performance was complemented by Jalen Williams, who contributed 17 points and seven assists, and rookie Chet Holmgren, who recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, along with two blocks and two steals.
On the defensive side, the Thunder effectively limited the Nuggets' star, Nikola Jokic, to just 17 points on 6-for-16 shooting, well below his Game 1 performance where he dominated with 42 points and 22 rebounds. The Thunder's focus on Jokic was evident, as they employed a physical style of play that kept the three-time MVP from finding his rhythm.
Despite the loss, Denver's Aaron Gordon managed to score 10 points, but his performance paled in comparison to his Game 1 heroics. Michael Porter Jr. struggled significantly, scoring only eight points on 2-for-10 shooting, and is now just 3-for-18 in the series. His shoulder injury from the previous round against the Los Angeles Clippers seems to be affecting his game, as he was seen with his left shoulder wrapped during the match.
In stark contrast, the Nuggets' defense faltered, allowing a playoff-record 87 points in the first half alone. They were outscored 52-28 in points in the paint and 26-5 on fastbreak points, highlighting the Thunder's dominance throughout the game. The lack of defensive intensity was a major talking point post-game, as the Nuggets struggled to contain Oklahoma City's offensive onslaught.
As the series shifts back to Denver for Game 3 on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 10 p.m. ET, both teams will be looking to adjust their strategies. The Thunder will aim to carry their momentum into the next game, while the Nuggets will seek to rebound from this heavy defeat and regain control of the series.
This matchup has proven to be an exciting one, with both teams showcasing their talents and the unpredictability of playoff basketball. With the series tied, the stakes are higher than ever, and fans can expect another thrilling contest as these teams vie for a spot in the conference finals.
