Gordon Delivers at the Death
Aaron Gordon knocked down a stunning game-winning 3-pointer with four seconds remaining, capping a dramatic 14-point second-half comeback to give the Denver Nuggets a thrilling 121-119 victory over the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals.
It was Gordon’s second game-winner of the 2025 postseason, as the versatile forward continues to evolve into a clutch performer — shedding the label of role player and proving his value as a finisher under pressure.
Jokic Dominates the Paint
While Gordon provided the dagger, it was Nikola Jokic who carried Denver all night.
The reigning MVP delivered a monster performance: 42 points, 22 rebounds, and a series of critical fourth-quarter plays that powered the Nuggets back into contention after trailing by double digits.
Jokic’s control of the tempo and his dominance inside set the stage for Gordon’s heroics.
Nuggets Steal Home-Court Advantage
The win hands Denver a crucial road victory and flips the series dynamic — stealing home-court advantage from a Thunder squad that had looked nearly unbeatable at home all season.
Denver now leads the series 1-0, with momentum squarely on their side heading into Game 2.
Thunder Face Early Pressure
For Oklahoma City, the loss stings more than most.
Despite a strong showing from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder couldn’t contain Denver’s late surge. And with the Nuggets’ experience and Jokic’s playoff composure now in full swing, Game 2 becomes a must-win to avoid falling into a daunting hole.
What’s Next
Game 2 tips off in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder will look to regroup and the Nuggets will aim to push their advantage further.
For now, though, the moment belongs to Aaron Gordon — whose buzzer-beater might be the defining shot of the playoffs so far.
