Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Thunder to Historic Blowout in Game 2 vs. Nuggets
Oklahoma City didn’t just bounce back — they made a statement. Behind a sizzling performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a record-breaking first half, the Thunder routed the Denver Nuggets 149-106 on Wednesday night, evening the Western Conference Semifinal series at 1-1.
This wasn’t just a win. It was a clinic, a record-smashing night that left little doubt about the Thunder’s firepower and focus.
How Did the Thunder Make NBA Playoff History?
Let’s start with the numbers. Oklahoma City dropped 87 points in the first half, setting a new NBA playoff record for most points in a half. That mark beat the previous record of 86 set by the Cavaliers in the 2017 NBA Finals against the Warriors.
The Thunder also tied the all-time playoff record for any half, matching the 87 that the Bucks scored against Denver way back in 1978.
Chet Holmgren, who missed key free throws in Game 1, knocked down two with one second left before halftime to cement the record. Redemption doesn’t get more poetic.
By the time the third quarter ended, the Thunder were up 124-76. It wasn’t just a win — it was dominance.
What Made Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Performance So Special?
Shai was in complete control.
He finished with 34 points in just three quarters, hitting 11-of-13 from the field and 11-of-11 from the free throw line. Add in eight assists, and it’s clear this wasn’t just about scoring.
“He made them pay when they overhelped,” coach Mark Daigneault said. “It wasn’t just a one-man show. He was super efficient.”
Gilgeous-Alexander led a balanced Thunder attack that featured eight players scoring in double figures. Oklahoma City was locked in from the opening tip, and Shai’s leadership set the tone.
What Went Wrong for Denver?
Just about everything.
Nikola Jokic, who dominated Game 1 with 42 points and 22 rebounds, was held to 17 points and 8 rebounds before fouling out in the third quarter. He never looked comfortable.
Denver trailed 45-21 after the first quarter, as Oklahoma City shot 71.4% from the field. That’s not a typo — they were nearly unstoppable.
Interim head coach David Adelman didn’t sugarcoat it.
“We got punked,” he said. “We didn’t play well enough and they came out with the right intensity.”
Even Russell Westbrook, who had a warm reception in Game 1, was booed after entering Game 2. He responded with 19 points but also picked up a technical foul early on — a moment that only added fuel to the Thunder’s already raging fire.
Can the Nuggets Regroup Back in Denver?
They have no choice. Game 3 shifts to Denver on Friday, and while the series is tied 1-1, the emotional momentum now belongs to the Thunder.
Adelman said he wouldn’t brush off this loss.
“We’re not going to flush that. We’ve got to be better. We know that.”
Still, the Nuggets stole Game 1 on the road. They’ve got home court and a superstar in Jokic. But if Oklahoma City plays with this kind of urgency and execution again, Denver’s in for a serious challenge.
What Made This Win So Important for Oklahoma City?
It was more than just avoiding a 0-2 hole. It was a coming-of-age moment.
This Thunder team is young. They’re fast. They’re confident. And on Wednesday night, they showed they can flip a switch and take over on the biggest stage.
“We knew what was at stake,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “We came out desperate.”
And now? The Western Conference Semis feel like anyone’s series.
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