Thunder make history, crush nuggets in Game 2 blowout to even series
Pranjal Chandra | May 08, 2025, 23:26 IST
The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated Game 2 against the Denver Nuggets, winning 149-106 and tying the series 1-1. They set a new NBA playoff record with 87 points in the first half, fueled by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 34 points and a balanced offensive attack. Denver struggled defensively, while Oklahoma City reaffirmed their identity as an explosive and disciplined team.
The Oklahoma City Thunder made a thunderous statement in Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal series, bouncing back from a narrow defeat in the opener to dismantle the Denver Nuggets 149-106 on Wednesday night. In doing so, the young and energetic squad not only leveled the series but also etched their name into the NBA record books.
In a jaw-dropping offensive display, the Thunder scored 87 points in the first half setting a new NBA playoff record for most points in a half. The previous high-water mark of 86, set by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2017 NBA Finals, was toppled in emphatic fashion. Chet Holmgren, the rookie center who faced criticism after missing key free throws in Game 1, fittingly hit two with one second left before halftime to seal the historic number.
Oklahoma City’s first-half dominance came on the back of blistering efficiency: they shot 58.8% from the floor and sank 17 of 18 free throws. All five starters reached double digits before halftime, highlighting a well-rounded and relentless offensive attack.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again proved why he’s the Thunder’s cornerstone. The All-Star guard put up 34 points and eight assists in just three quarters, orchestrating the offense with a mix of finesse and force. His composure and scoring versatility left Denver scrambling for answers.
Even more impressive was the Thunder’s balanced scoring effort. While Gilgeous-Alexander set the tone, the supporting cast played with precision and confidence traits that have defined Oklahoma City throughout the regular season.
Denver’s inability to contain the Thunder from the opening tip cost them dearly. By the time halftime arrived, they trailed by 31 points. Despite boasting MVP center Nikola Jokic, who was relatively quiet in the face of Oklahoma City’s swarming defense, the Nuggets never found rhythm.
Interim head coach David Adelman acknowledged the team’s sluggish start and the consequences of letting the Thunder dictate the pace early.
Denver now finds itself in a pivotal moment. While they squeaked out a 121-119 win in Game 1, their Game 2 showing suggests a failure to adapt—and raises questions about their ability to handle the Thunder’s tempo.
For Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault, the win wasn’t just a response to a Game 1 loss it was a reaffirmation of the team’s identity.
That baseline, it turns out, is one of the most explosive and disciplined rosters in the NBA. Oklahoma City has now become the first team in league history to win multiple playoff games by at least 40 points in the same postseason, having also blown out Memphis 131-80 in the first round.
With the series tied 1-1, the momentum has dramatically shifted. The Thunder will look to carry their confidence on the road, while the Nuggets must regroup quickly if they hope to defend their title aspirations.
If Game 2 is any indication, Oklahoma City has no intention of slowing down.
Record-breaking first half leaves Nuggets reeling
Oklahoma City’s first-half dominance came on the back of blistering efficiency: they shot 58.8% from the floor and sank 17 of 18 free throws. All five starters reached double digits before halftime, highlighting a well-rounded and relentless offensive attack.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the charge
Even more impressive was the Thunder’s balanced scoring effort. While Gilgeous-Alexander set the tone, the supporting cast played with precision and confidence traits that have defined Oklahoma City throughout the regular season.
Defensive meltdown for Denver
Interim head coach David Adelman acknowledged the team’s sluggish start and the consequences of letting the Thunder dictate the pace early.
Denver now finds itself in a pivotal moment. While they squeaked out a 121-119 win in Game 1, their Game 2 showing suggests a failure to adapt—and raises questions about their ability to handle the Thunder’s tempo.
A return to identity for Oklahoma City
That baseline, it turns out, is one of the most explosive and disciplined rosters in the NBA. Oklahoma City has now become the first team in league history to win multiple playoff games by at least 40 points in the same postseason, having also blown out Memphis 131-80 in the first round.
What’s next?
If Game 2 is any indication, Oklahoma City has no intention of slowing down.