• Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Denver Nuggets 149-106 in Game 2, tying the series 1-1.
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 34 points and a plus-51 rating, while the team set an NBA playoff record for 87 points in the first half.
• Nikola Jokic struggled, fouling out in the third quarter with 17 points, as the Nuggets failed to match the Thunder's physicality and ball movement.

The Oklahoma City Thunder bounced back from a Game 1 loss to defeat the Denver Nuggets 149-106 in Game 2 of their NBA conference semifinals series. The Thunder's dominant performance featured exceptional play from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a record-breaking 87-point first half. The series is now tied 1-1 as it moves to Denver, with the Thunder demonstrating their ability to compete at a high level after making adjustments from their previous defeat.

• What: The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Denver Nuggets by a score of 149-106 in Game 2 of the NBA conference semifinals, tying the series 1-1.
• Who: Key players include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder) and Nikola Jokić (Nuggets). Coaches Mark Daigneault (Thunder) and David Adelman (Nuggets).
• When: The game took place on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Game 3 is scheduled for Friday in Denver.
• Where: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Game 2 location). The series now moves to Denver, Colorado.

The Thunder's dominant performance in Game 2 was a direct response to their Game 1 loss. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's exceptional play and the team's overall execution on both ends of the court were key factors in the victory. The Nuggets struggled to match the Thunder's intensity and physicality, particularly with Nikola Jokić having an off night and fouling out. The series now shifts to Denver, where the Nuggets will need to make significant adjustments to regain control.

"We came out desperate."

"Basically, it was one team playing tonight. They were aggressive; they were going by us. They were much, much better than us today and that's why the score is so bad."

"We got punked."

Following a decisive 149-106 victory in Game 2, the Oklahoma City Thunder has not only leveled the series against the Denver Nuggets but has also showcased their offensive firepower and defensive capabilities. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's exceptional performance, with 34 points in just three quarters, underscored his leadership and status as a top MVP candidate. The Thunder's record-tying 87 points in the first half demonstrated their ability to execute and dominate early, setting a tone that the Nuggets struggled to counter. As the series shifts to Denver, the Nuggets face immense pressure to adjust their defense and reignite their offense, particularly from Nikola Jokic, whose Game 2 performance was hampered by foul trouble. The Thunder, having exposed vulnerabilities in Denver's armor, aim to maintain their aggressive play and capitalize on their momentum, while also preparing for a likely determined response from the defending champions on their home court. The contrasting performances in Game 2 have set the stage for a compelling continuation of this series, with both teams facing critical adjustments to assert control.