Breaking: Nuggets Outlast Thunder in Overtime, Take 2-1 Series Lead in Western Conference Semifinals
In a thrilling encounter, the Denver Nuggets have edged past the Oklahoma City Thunder, 113-104, in overtime to secure a 2-1 series lead in their best-of-seven Western Conference Semifinals clash. Nikola Jokic, Denver’s superstar center, responded with a clutch 20-point performance in the extra period after an off shooting night, registering his 13th double-double of the playoffs with 16 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 blocks, and 2 steals.
The see-saw battle witnessed 15 lead changes, with the game tied at 102 apiece after regulation. Jokic’s heroic performance in overtime was supported by a strong finish from Jamal Murray, who chipped in 10 of his 26 points in the extra period. Murray also contributed 6 rebounds and 7 assists in the victory.
The Thunder saw a formidable outing from German big man Isaiah Hartenstein, who tallied a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds, adding 4 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal. However, his efforts were not enough to overcome the Nuggets’ late surge.
In the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers earned their first win of the series, defeating the Indiana Pacers 126-104 in Game 3. Donovan Mitchell scored a game-high 43 points, leading the Cavs’ comeback from an 0-2 series deficit. The Cavaliers trail the Pacers 2-1, while the Nuggets hold a commanding lead against the Thunder.
Thunder Strikes Back: OKC Evening the Series Against Denver in Overtime Thriller
Jokic Falters, Thunder Soar Behind Hartenstein’s Double-Double
The Western Conference Semifinals between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder took an exciting turn in Game 3, with the Thunder outlasting the Nuggets in overtime, 113-104, to even the series at one game apiece. After two lackluster performances, Nikola Jokic struggled from the field, finishing with just 16 points and eight rebounds, underscoring the Nuggets’ need for more balanced scoring.
Pro Tip: With Jokic off his game, Denver must rely on role players like Vlatko Cancar and Dario Saric to step up, given their European kinship and complementary skills.
Hartenstein Leads Thunder with 10-Point, 10-Rebound Double-Double
On the other side, German big man Isaiah Hartenstein led the Thunder with a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double, trypsin his three-point shooting and providing a formidable presence on the glass. Alongside Hartenstein, French rookie Ousmane Dieng and Belgian prospect Ajay Mitchell watched from the bench, as Serbian center Nikola Jovic remains sidelined with a knee injury.
Did you know? Hartenstein’s double-double was his third in the last four games, emphasizing his growing importance in the Thunder’s playoff run.
Cavaliers Bounce Back Against Pacers, Warriors Eliminate Rockets
Cleveland Wins Home Game incaledar to Square Series with Indiana
The Cleveland Cavaliers snapped their two-game skid and won their playoff home opener, defeating the Indiana Pacers 126-104 to tie their Eastern Conference Semifinals series at two games apiece. Donovan Mitchell poured in 43 points, leading the Cavs’ resurgence after back-to-back losses on the road.
Golden State Douses Houston’s Fire, Advances to Conference Semifinals
The Houston Rockets’ inspiring run came to an end as the Golden State Warriors eliminate them from the playoffs with a 103-89 Game 7 victory. Warriors’ big man Draymond Green notched a triple-double (12 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists), leading the way as the Rockets’ young cores, Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green, exit the stage with valuable playoff experience.
Reader Question: How will the Warriors’ lineup shake up with Stephen Curry’s recent injury? Read more here.
What’s Next in the NBA Playoffs?
Celtics, Timberwolves Face Must-Win Situations
The Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves find themselves in must-win situations, trailing their respective Eastern and Western Conference Semifinal series 2-0 to the New York Knicks and Golden State Warriors, respectively. Both teams must dig deep and rely on their stars to forza a series swing.
FAQ: Which European stars are making their mark in the NBA Playoffs?
- Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets): The Serbian sensation continues to lead the Nuggets, averaging 29.7 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists in the playoffs. Despite an off-night in Game 3, Jokic remains a dominant force.
- Kristaps Porzingis (New York Knicks): The Latvian big man has been instrumental in the Knicks’ playoff run, averaging 21.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Despite exiting Game 2 with an injury, he’s poised to return and make an impact.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks): Although the Bucks fell to the Indiana Pacers in the first round, the Greek Freak averaged 29.1 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, showcasing his dominance before injury ended his season.
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