**Nuggets Overcome Thunder to Force Game 7 in Playoff Series**
Jamal Murray battled through illness to score 25 points, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 119-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night. This win sets the stage for a decisive Game 7 back in Oklahoma City.
Murray, who had been sick since Wednesday and was listed as questionable for the game, made an immediate impact with a four-point play to kick off the match. He also hit a crucial step-back 3-pointer at the start of the fourth quarter, extending Denver’s lead to double digits for the first time.
Nikola Jokic was the standout performer for the Nuggets, contributing 29 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists. Christian Braun also had a significant impact, scoring a career playoff-high 23 points along with 12 rebounds. However, it was Julian Strawther, a second-year reserve guard, who truly energized the Nuggets, scoring 15 points—all in the second half. Strawther’s performance included two 3-pointers and a layup during a pivotal 10-0 run in the third quarter, which helped Denver secure a comfortable lead.
Despite the victory, the Nuggets faced a potential setback as Aaron Gordon appeared to injure his left hamstring late in the game, limping through the final minutes.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 32 points, including 18 in the second half, despite being hampered by foul trouble. However, he lacked sufficient support from his teammates, which hindered Oklahoma City’s chances of reaching the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2016. Chet Holmgren added 19 points, while All-Star Jalen Williams struggled, scoring just six points on 3-of-16 shooting.
The Thunder initially took a 61-58 lead into halftime, thanks to Lu Dort’s buzzer-beating 3-pointer. However, the Nuggets rallied from a 12-point deficit with a 12-0 run to close the first half, capped off by Braun’s 3-pointer.
With the Nuggets having won the championship two years ago, they will now enjoy a two-day break after a grueling schedule of games every other day since April 29. The Thunder, on the other hand, have only lost back-to-back games twice this season, once in November and again in early April.
**FAQ**
**Q: When is Game 7 of the Nuggets vs. Thunder series?**
A: Game 7 is scheduled for Sunday, with the winner facing the Minnesota Timberwolves, who advanced after defeating the Golden State Warriors in five games.