Denver (1-0) at Oklahoma City (0-1)
- When: May 7 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- TV: TNT
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets Game 2 Preview and Predictions
Spread: Thunder faored by -10.0 | Total: 230.5
The Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets meet for Game 2 of their Western Conference Semifinal clash. After a dramatic Game 1, where Denver pulled off a stunning 121-119 comeback victory, Oklahoma City is looking to even the series before it shifts to Colorado. The Thunder are favored by 10 points, signaling confidence in their ability to bounce back on their home floor.
Oklahoma City Thunder Overview
The Thunder have been a model of consistency throughout the regular season, rarely dropping back-to-back games. Their dominance was evident as they swept the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round, controlling each matchup with precision and poise. However, they were stunned in Game 1 against Denver, losing on a last-second Aaron Gordon three-pointer.
Despite the setback, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains confident in his team’s ability to respond. “There’s nothing we can do about what just happened…all we can do is be better for the next game,” he stated. Coach Mark Daigneault echoed this sentiment, highlighting that playoff adversity is part of the journey and that Oklahoma City must “embrace the struggle” to advance.
Defensively, the Thunder threw everything they had at Nikola Jokic, and while they managed to frustrate him at times, he still finished with an incredible 42 points and 22 rebounds. For Oklahoma City to cover the spread in Game 2, they’ll need to limit Jokic’s impact and capitalize on their own offensive opportunities.
Player Prop Picks:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Over 33.5 Points: After a tough Game 1, expect SGA to come out aggressive, especially with Oklahoma City favored to win big.
Jalen Williams – Over 5.5 Assists: Williams’ playmaking will be crucial in breaking down Denver’s defense and setting up high-percentage shots.
Denver Nuggets Overview
The Nuggets pulled off a stunner in Game 1, overcoming a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Nikola Jokic showcased why he’s one of the most dominant forces in the game, tallying a monstrous 42 points and 22 rebounds. His clutch performance was capped off by Aaron Gordon’s game-winning three-pointer, a testament to Denver’s grit and resilience.
Denver’s surge comes after a rocky regular season that saw head coach Michael Malone dismissed. Yet, the team regrouped, fought through a tough seven-game series against the Los Angeles Clippers, and now holds an early edge over the Thunder. Russell Westbrook, now wearing a Nuggets jersey, made his presence felt, dishing out the assist to Gordon for the dagger.
The Nuggets will look to carry that momentum into Game 2, knowing they head back to Colorado for Games 3 and 4. Westbrook emphasized their competitive spirit: “We didn’t want to miss the moment. I’m glad we showed our grit, but we are not satisfied.”
Player Prop Picks:
Nikola Jokic – Over 12.5 Rebounds: Jokic has been a monster on the boards, and with Oklahoma City expected to put up a fight, he’ll be heavily involved in cleaning the glass.
Aaron Gordon – Over 16.5 Points: Gordon has stepped up in big moments, and his confidence is at an all-time high after that game-winner.
Expert Prediction and Final Score
Oklahoma City rarely drops consecutive games, and the Thunder will be eager to reassert their dominance on home court. However, Denver’s resilience and ability to claw back from deficits make this a much tighter game than the -10 spread suggests. Expect a competitive battle with the Thunder edging it out late.
Spread: Nuggets +10.0 – OKC to win but Denver to cover the spread
Total: Over 230.5 – The Over hitting as both offenses find their rhythm
Final Score Prediction: Thunder 119, Nuggets 114
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
