Thunder Defeats Nuggets in Game 4, Ties Series
The Oklahoma City Thunder demonstrated resilience and skill by defeating the Denver Nuggets, 92-87, in a hard-fought Game 4 on Sunday, evening their second-round playoff series at 2-2.
Clutch Performances Shine
Leading the charge for Oklahoma City was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 25 points, including nine crucial points in the fourth quarter. This performance was pivotal in helping the Thunder avoid a 3-1 series deficit against a Nuggets team renowned for its playoff experience and successful closeout strategies.
Game Dynamics and Key Moments
After a lackluster first half, with both teams combining for only 25 points in the opening quarter, the Thunder managed to build a slim lead, heading into halftime with a 42-36 advantage.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault emphasized the importance of depth in this game, saying, “We made an intentional effort to use our depth today and get everybody going.” This strategy paid off in the fourth quarter, when an 11-0 run, fueled by reserves Cason Wallace and Aaron Wiggins, saw Oklahoma City take control.
Wallace contributed significantly with two three-pointers, the second of which gave the Thunder a permanent lead at 75-73.
Nuggets Struggle Late
Despite having the opportunity to solidify a series lead, Denver faltered in the final moments. Interim coach David Adelman noted, “I really thought the difference in the game was their bench kind of lit a fuse for them.” The Nuggets were unable to capitalize on their chances, which included a critical five-second inbounds violation at a crucial moment.
Offensive Challenges for Both Teams
The game was characterized by poor shooting, as both teams combined for a dismal 33.5% field goal percentage, the lowest in a playoff game since 2004. They also struggled from beyond the arc, going 3-for-22 in the first half.
Building Experience
Gilgeous-Alexander reflected on the team’s growth, stating, “We fought. We stayed the course… and then we closed the game.” Coach Daigneault reiterated the importance of learning from adversity, asserting that every setback makes a team stronger. “Every time you take punches and you get back up, you get stronger,” he said.
As the series shifts back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Tuesday, the Thunder will look to build upon this momentum against a Nuggets team determined to reclaim its edge.
