The Oklahoma City Thunder opened the 2025 NBA Western Conference Semifinals with a statement, securing a dominant 98–88 win over the Denver Nuggets in Game 1. The Nuggets vs Thunder showdown is already living up to its high expectations, with both teams bringing intensity and elite-level talent to the floor.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 20 points in a balanced performance that saw Oklahoma City’s defense frustrate Denver’s usually explosive offense. The Thunder’s league-best 68–14 regular-season record is proving no fluke, as they continue to show poise, depth, and energy on both ends of the court.
Despite the loss, Nikola Jokić put in a heroic effort for the Nuggets with 24 points and 20 rebounds. However, without consistent contributions from his supporting cast—particularly Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon—the Nuggets struggled to generate offense down the stretch. With the Nuggets vs Thunder series heading into Game 2, Denver will need a much stronger all-around performance to even the series.
The Thunder entered this series fresh off a first-round sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies, while the Nuggets had to grind out a seven-game series against the Los Angeles Clippers. The difference in rest and preparation was evident in Game 1, and it could play a role in future Nuggets vs Thunder games.
Remaining Nuggets vs Thunder Series Schedule (All times PDT)
Game 2: May 7 – Nuggets @ Thunder – 6:30 PM
Game 3: May 9 – Thunder @ Nuggets – 7:00 PM
Game 4: May 11 – Thunder @ Nuggets – 12:30 PM
Game 5: May 13 – Nuggets @ Thunder – 10:00 AM (if necessary)
Game 6: May 15 – Thunder @ Nuggets – 10:00 AM (if necessary)
Game 7: May 18 – Nuggets @ Thunder – 10:00 AM (if necessary)
The Nuggets vs Thunder battle continues to build excitement among fans as the stakes rise. With Oklahoma City aiming to extend their lead and Denver fighting to stay in contention, every possession will matter going forward.
How to Watch Nuggets vs Thunder
In the U.S.:
TV Channels: TNT, truTV, ESPN, ABC, and Max (via the B/R Sports add-on)
Streaming Platforms:
Sling TV – Access TNT, ESPN, and NBA TV with the Orange + Sports Extra package
DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV – Include TNT, ESPN, and ABC
Max – Features TNT games with B/R Sports add-on
International Viewers:
NBA League Pass offers live and on-demand coverage of Nuggets vs Thunder games, with blackout restrictions in some regions.
In India: Catch Nuggets vs Thunder on Sports18 or stream it on JioCinema.
What to Watch in Nuggets vs Thunder Game 2
As the Nuggets vs Thunder series heads into Game 2, the Thunder will look to ride their momentum and maintain home-court dominance. Denver, on the other hand, must regroup, find offensive rhythm, and slow down the Thunder’s fast-paced play.
The Nuggets vs Thunder clash is shaping up to be one of the most intense matchups in this year’s playoffs, pitting a rising young squad against the reigning champions. With more drama ahead, fans can expect high-octane basketball as these Western Conference giants continue their fight for a place in the NBA Finals.
