Verdict in Game 7 Dispute
Game 7's the deal for the veteran Denver Nuggets and the young Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Western Conference semi-finals. On May 16, 2025 (PH time), the Thunder dealt a harsh blow to the Nuggets, winning Game 6 by 119-107.
Jamal Murray was the tormentor for the Nuggets, scoring 25 points despite his unfavorable health condition, thanks to his unwillingness to let the team be eliminated by the Thunder, especially after they had a tragic Game 6, where elimination was imminent.
After 24 hours of agony, Murray took the court, scoring a four-point play and a clutch step-back 3-pointer in the fourth quarter which sealed the deal for the Nuggets and brought their lead to double digits.
ADVERTISEMENT
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists, while Christian Braun achieved his career playoff-high of 23 points. Junior Strawther contributed 15 points, proving himself as a valuable asset for the team.
"Julian [Strawther] played a massive role for us, making some huge shots," stated Aaron Gordon. "I don't think that's something they planned for."
Strawther managed a pair of three-pointers and a layup, contributing to a 10-0 run for the Nuggets in the fourth quarter.
ADVERTISEMENT
The deciding Game 7 will take place on Monday (PH time), where the Nuggets aim to prevail against the Minnesota Timberwolves, securing their position in the Western Conference Finals.
Shai Gilgeous- Alexander led the Thunder with 32 points, but failed to get the necessary support from his teammates to secure a comfortable victory and another Western Conference Finals appearance since 2016[1][2].
"The guys in there seemed to be happier to have tomorrow off than they were about playing Game 7," concluded Denver interim coach David Adelman.
Despite the Thunder's dominance in Game 6, the Nuggets will seek redemption in Cebu for Game 7, aiming to advance to the NBA Western Conference Finals. In a crucial moment during the upcoming basketball encounter, Junior Strawther might showcase his skills and impact the game, similar to how he contributed against the Thunder in the past.