Thunder-Nuggets: 5 Key Takeaways as OKC Stands Strong Against Nikola Jokić in Game 5

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Thunder-Nuggets: 5 Key Takeaways as OKC Stands Strong Against Nikola Jokić in Game 5

Introduction

In a nail-biting Game 5, the Oklahoma City Thunder seized a vital 3-2 series lead over the Denver Nuggets, despite an extraordinary 44-point performance from Nikola Jokić. On a night when the pressure was at its peak, the Thunder showcased resilience, smarts, and a well-rounded team effort that outshone Jokić’s efforts. The Nuggets were in control for much of the game, but OKC’s defense and key performances down the stretch flipped the momentum in their favor. Thunder-Nuggets: 5 Key Takeaways as OKC Stands Strong Against Nikola Jokić in Game 5

Let’s break down the five critical takeaways from this intense game, as the Thunder move one step closer to a potential trip to the Western Conference Finals.

1. Oklahoma City Stays Steady When It Matters Most

The Thunder are the youngest team in the NBA, but their poise in Game 5 suggested otherwise. Despite the pressure, they stayed calm in the fourth quarter when the game was on the line. Starting with an 8-point deficit, OKC outscored the Nuggets by 11 in the final frame, thanks to flawless ball movement, sharp decision-making, and clutch shot-making. Thunder-Nuggets: 5 Key Takeaways as OKC Stands Strong Against Nikola Jokić in Game 5

  • Defense in Clutch Moments: The Thunder’s defense on Denver’s shooters was suffocating, limiting everyone except Jokić to very few scoring opportunities. As the Nuggets struggled to find a rhythm, the Thunder capitalized.
  • Key Moments: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to drive to the basket and convert an and-one to tie the game was a crucial turning point. Jalen Williams then stepped up to hit a 3-pointer, giving OKC a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander summed up the team’s mindset perfectly: “The answer is never a hero play or anything out of the ordinary, it’s trusting each other … it’s being who we are.”

2. Nikola Jokić’s Masterful Performance, but Too Little, Too Late

Nikola Jokić finally played up to his MVP-caliber level in Game 5, delivering 44 points and 15 rebounds. His efficiency was on display as he made 17 of 25 shots, including 5-of-7 from beyond the arc. However, despite Jokić’s monumental effort, the Nuggets couldn’t close the deal.

  • Lack of Support: Jokić was forced to carry the load offensively, but his teammates, including Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., struggled in crucial moments. Jokić only registered five assists, indicating his inability to find the open man when the defense collapsed on him.
  • Fourth Quarter Fatigue: Denver went over 7 minutes without a field goal in the fourth quarter, a testament to the Nuggets’ fatigue and lack of offensive cohesion. Nuggets coach David Adelman admitted, “If it is fatigue, that’s on me,” acknowledging the toll the game had taken on his players.

3. Lu Dort Shines with His Defensive Tenacity and Scoring

Lu Dort may not always be the offensive star, but in Game 5, he was absolutely crucial to the Thunder’s success. After struggling in previous games with his shooting, Dort stepped up both defensively and offensively.

  • Defensive Pressure on Jamal Murray: Dort’s relentless defense against Jamal Murray was a game-changer. Murray, who had been hot in the first few quarters, was held to just 1-of-6 shooting in the fourth quarter. Dort’s ability to limit Murray’s space and movement allowed the Thunder to suffocate Denver’s offense.
  • Offensive Contribution: Dort also contributed 16 points, shooting 4-of-8 from deep. His timely shooting, especially in key moments, kept the Nuggets on their heels.

Mark Daigneault praised Dort, saying, “There’s a special thing about him. He’s always going to stand back up. He’s always going to respond, he’s always going to compete.”

4. Michael Porter Jr. Struggles: A Puzzling Performance

Michael Porter Jr. has been a source of frustration for the Nuggets throughout this series, and Game 5 was no different. Porter, dealing with a left shoulder injury, struggled mightily from the field.

  • Inefficiency at Crucial Times: Porter took just seven shots and missed six of them. His inability to contribute consistently, especially in the game’s most critical moments, was a significant blow to Denver’s chances. Porter missed a potential game-tying shot late in the game, and his last shot attempt was an airball.
  • Could Porter Be Unplayable?: With Porter continuing to struggle, Nuggets coach David Adelman may have to consider other options. The Nuggets’ search for a reliable shooter has been an ongoing issue, especially when Porter can’t find his rhythm.

5. OKC’s Dominance in the Paint: Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein Step Up

While Jokić was dominant in the paint for the Nuggets, he wasn’t the only big man making an impact on the floor. The Thunder’s two towering bigs—Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein—played a significant role in the game’s outcome.

  • Efficient Play from the Big Men: Holmgren and Hartenstein combined for 29 points on 13-of-19 shooting. Their ability to finish in the paint, along with their defensive presence, gave OKC an advantage in the frontcourt.
  • Attacking Jokić: OKC’s strategy to attack Jokić in the paint, hoping to draw fouls and force him into tough situations, paid off. While Jokić didn’t pick up fouls early, the Thunder’s persistence wore down the Nuggets’ defense.

 

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