In a dramatic Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, the Denver Nuggets overcame a 14-point second-half deficit to defeat the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder 121–119, thanks to a last-second three-pointer by Aaron Gordon.
Nikola Jokić delivered a dominant performance, recording 42 points and 22 rebounds, marking his fourth career 40+ point playoff game. Despite facing aggressive defense and foul trouble, including a Flagrant 1 foul late in the game, Jokić remained composed and contributed significantly to the Nuggets' comeback.
The game's turning point occurred in the final seconds when Thunder's Chet Holmgren missed two crucial free throws with his team leading by one. Denver's Christian Braun secured the rebound and passed to Russell Westbrook, who, returning to Oklahoma City as an opponent, found Gordon for the game-winning shot with just 4 seconds remaining.
Gordon finished with 22 points and 14 rebounds, adding to his reputation for clutch performances in the playoffs. Jamal Murray contributed 21 points and 6 assists, while Westbrook added 18 points off the bench.
For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, and Alex Caruso added 20 points. Despite their strong start and extended rest after a first-round sweep, the Thunder were unable to maintain their lead against the resilient Nuggets.
The series continues with Game 2 on Wednesday in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder will look to even the series.
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