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The Oklahoma City Thunder bounced back from their first playoff loss with a commanding victory over the Denver Nuggets, winning 149-106 on Wednesday (May 7) at the Paycom Center. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 34 points, helping the Thunder tie the Western Conference Semifinals at one game apiece.
Oklahoma City set a new NBA playoff record by scoring 87 points in the first half, surpassing the previous record of 86 set by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2017. Chet Holmgren contributed to this record by making two free throws just before halftime, giving the Thunder an 87-56 lead. The team also tied the record for points in any half of a playoff game, matching the Milwaukee Bucks' 87 points against Denver in 1978.
Gilgeous-Alexander's performance was a highlight, as he made 11 of 13 field goals, all 11 of his free throws, and added eight assists. "We knew what was at stake tonight," he said. "We came out desperate." Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised Gilgeous-Alexander for his efficiency and ability to involve his teammates.
Nikola Jokic, who had a standout performance in Game 1, was limited to 17 points and eight rebounds before fouling out late in the third quarter. Russell Westbrook led the Nuggets with 19 points, but the Thunder's early dominance set the tone for the game. Oklahoma City led 45-21 at the end of the first quarter and extended their lead to 124-76 after three quarters, with the largest lead reaching 49 points.
The Thunder became the first home team to win a game in the second round of the playoffs. Game 3 is scheduled for Friday in Denver, where both teams will continue their battle for a spot in the Western Conference Finals.