Thunder Strikes Back: Nuggets' Early Struggles Lead to Series Tie

The Denver Nuggets had a tough time in the playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder. It all started with a terrible first quarter. Both teams struggled to score, but the Nuggets had an especially hard time. They only managed to score eight points in the first quarter. This was a new low for the Nuggets in their playoff history. The Thunder, on the other hand, scored 17 points in the same quarter. This first quarter was the lowest-scoring opening quarter in NBA playoff history. The Nuggets tried to come back, but it was too little, too late. They took the lead in the third quarter, but the Thunder fought back. The Thunder went on an 11-0 run in the fourth quarter, which changed the game. The Nuggets missed several free throws and couldn't keep up. The Thunder won the game 92-87, tying the series at 2-2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the star of the game for the Thunder. He scored 25 points, grabbed six rebounds, and had six assists. Nikola Jokić, the Nuggets' star, had 27 points and 13 rebounds, but he struggled with his shots. He only made seven out of 22 attempts from the field. The Thunder's defense was tough, and it showed in Jokić's performance. The Thunder's victory was a big deal because it tied the series. This means the next game will be crucial for both teams. They will both want to win to take the lead in the series. The game was also notable for the poor shooting from both teams. The Thunder shot 35. 6% from the field and 24. 4% from three-point range. The Nuggets were slightly better from the field but equally bad from three-point range, shooting 31. 3% and 24. 4% respectively. The coaches had different views on the short turnaround between games. The Nuggets' coach thought it was tough, but the Thunder's coach didn't think it gave either team an advantage. Both teams had to deal with the same short rest. The next game will be in Oklahoma City on Tuesday at 9:30 PM ET. Both teams will be looking to take the lead in the series.