Nuggets Face Tough Loss to Thunder in Game 4
In a challenging matchup on Sunday, the Denver Nuggets struggled, losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder with a score of 92-87. The game marked a significant turning point, tying the Western Conference playoff series at 2-2.
The Nuggets started the game slow, managing only eight points in the first quarter. This dismal performance set the record for the lowest output in a single quarter in their postseason history. Both teams faced difficulties in finding their rhythm early, resulting in a historical low-scoring first quarter in NBA playoff history, where a combined 25 points were made.
As the game progressed, the Nuggets eventually found their offensive pace. They managed to take a lead during the third quarter, going up 73-66 early in the fourth. However, the Thunder answered back with their own surge, scoring 11 consecutive points that shifted the momentum. Denver’s inability to maintain their lead was compounded by poor shooting late in the game, which ultimately sealed their fate.
Despite the loss, Nikola Jokić put in a solid effort, scoring 27 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, although he struggled with his shooting, hitting just 7 of 22 attempts. The Thunder’s defense posed problems for him throughout the game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had a rough outing in Game 3, rebounded strong for Oklahoma City. He led the Thunder with 25 points and was instrumental in their fourth-quarter push, scoring nine points in the final minutes to help secure the win. Coach Mark Daigneault commended Gilgeous-Alexander’s resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity, noting his level-headed approach to the game.
The Thunder’s coach emphasized that no one expected their young star to falter for long. “He’s so level and humble despite his success," Daigneault said. "When he does have a slow game, he’s quick to get back into rhythm without pointing fingers or sulking.”
The first quarter displayed a shocking lack of offensive efficiency, especially for both teams. The Thunder led 17-8 after the initial 12 minutes, and Oklahoma City capitalized on Denver’s struggles. The Nuggets ended the quarter shooting 0 for 13 from three-point range, a stark contrast to the offensive firepower they usually display.
Even with the challenges, the Nuggets clawed their way back into contention. They stayed competitive, thanks to the Thunder’s shooting woes as well. Even when the Nuggets seemed out of it, their determination shone through, exemplified by a three-pointer from Russell Westbrook that sparked cheers from the home crowd and cut the Thunder’s lead to just five points.
As both teams struggled offensively, the quick turnaround after Game 3, which had gone into overtime, played a role in the early performance. Coaches from both sides acknowledged the fatigue that could have impacted their players. “We tried to stay off our feet as much as possible,” Nuggets coach David Adelman mentioned, asserting that preparation was key.
The Thunder finished the game shooting 35.6% from the field and converting 24.4% of their three-point attempts, while the Nuggets recorded slightly lower figures at 31.3% from the floor and also 24.4% from beyond the arc.
Looking ahead, both teams will aim to calibrate their strategies for Game 5, set to take place at 9:30 p.m. ET in Oklahoma City. With the series tied, the next game will be crucial in determining which team can gain the upper hand in this tightly competitive playoff series. The stakes are high, and fans can expect a thrilling continuation of the battle between these two teams.
