Game 7 Showdown: Jokić’s Nuggets Edge Out Thunder in Heart-Stopping Finish

Denver Advances to Western Conference Finals After Nail-Biting Clash

In a game that will be remembered for its relentless intensity, Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets outdueled Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Oklahoma City Thunder in a 112-109 thriller. The victory sends Denver to the Western Conference Finals, keeping their championship hopes alive.

Key Moments That Decided the Game

• Jokić’s Triple-Double Mastery: The two-time MVP delivered yet another iconic performance with 31 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists, including a clutch fadeaway in the final minute.
• Caruso’s Defensive Heroics: Alex Caruso locked down Jamal Murray in critical stretches, forcing two late turnovers that nearly swung momentum.
• SGA’s Valiant Effort: Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 40 points, but his potential game-tying three rimmed out at the buzzer.

Why This Game Was a Turning Point

Denver’s adjustments at halftime—switching to a small-ball lineup—exploited OKC’s lack of size. Michael Porter Jr.’s corner threes (4/7 from deep) stretched the defense, while Aaron Gordon’s rim protection (4 blocks) sealed crucial stops.

1. First Half: Thunder led by 8 behind Chet Holmgren’s rim defense.
2. Third Quarter: Nuggets’ 18-4 run flipped the script.
3. Final Minute: Jokić’s post-up over Holmgren became the dagger.

What’s Next for Denver?

The Nuggets face the Timberwolves in a rematch of last year’s semifinals. Minnesota’s elite defense (ranked #1 in efficiency) poses a fresh challenge for Jokić’s chess-like playmaking.

What Do You Think?

• Was Caruso’s defense on Murray the real MVP of the game?
• Should OKC have double-teamed Jokić earlier in the fourth?
• Is this the best playoff performance of SGA’s career—despite the loss?
• Controversial: Did the refs miss a clear foul on Jokić’s last shot?