Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1: 5 Takeaways from the Shocking Playoff Upset
Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1 stunned NBA fans as the defending champions pulled off a dramatic 121-119 victory in Oklahoma City. Aaron Gordon’s last-second 3-pointer and Nikola Jokić’s dominant presence highlighted a game that flipped the script on the top-seeded Thunder. Here are five must-know takeaways from this high-stakes Western Conference Semifinal clash.
Visit 1stNews24 for more NBA coverage
1. Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1 Showed Denver’s Fearless Mindset
In Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1, Denver proved it isn’t intimidated by the top seed. The Nuggets played with championship grit and poise, finding answers in every clutch moment. Despite missing key shots from Michael Porter Jr. and struggling from three-point range, they showed why playoff experience matters. 
Oklahoma City, on the other hand, looked rusty after their first-round sweep and struggled to respond under pressure — especially after Chet Holmgren’s missed free throws late in the game.
2. Nikola Jokić Took Control in Game 1
Jokić dominated Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1, finishing with 42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists. Even in foul trouble, he imposed his will in the paint rather than settling for outside shots. The Thunder’s defensive strategy, featuring Holmgren and Hartenstein, couldn’t slow him down.
His relentless fourth-quarter performance was a reminder of why he’s considered the best player in the league right now.
3. Nuggets’ Depth Could Be a Weakness in the Series
Despite the win in Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1, Denver’s tight rotation may hurt them. They’ve played 8 games in 16 days, and several starters are logging 40+ minutes. Their lack of depth means fatigue could become a factor as the series progresses.
OKC may still have the upper hand if they can exploit Denver’s limited bench over time.
4. Russell Westbrook Shines Against Former Team
Westbrook was electric in Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1, dropping 18 points off the bench and delivering the game-winning assist to Gordon. He continues to play inspired basketball, especially against teams that moved on from him — including the Clippers, Rockets, and Lakers.
In his return to OKC, he was all business and helped seal one of Denver’s biggest playoff wins yet.
5. Alex Caruso’s Breakout Playoff Performance
Alex Caruso was one of the few bright spots for OKC in Nuggets vs Thunder Game 1. Coming off the bench, he scored 20 points, hit five 3-pointers, and delivered on defense with five steals and two blocks. The Thunder’s gamble on acquiring him from Chicago is starting to pay off.
Still, even Caruso’s stellar performance wasn’t enough to contain Aaron Gordon, who had 22 points, 14 rebounds, and the biggest shot of the night.
The Thunder are now in must-win territory going into Game 2. Can they bounce back from this stunning loss, or will the Nuggets continue their championship run?
