Jokić’s Dominant Night Not Enough as Thunder Blow Lead

In a thrilling Western Conference semi-final showdown, the Denver Nuggets stole Game 1 from the Oklahoma City Thunder with a last-second three-pointer from Aaron Gordon, earning a shocking 121-119 victory on Monday night.

“When I shot it, did I know it was in?” Gordon said after the game. “I knew it wasn’t a miss.”

— Aaron Gordon

Jokić’s Historic Performance Falls Short

Nikola Jokić dominated the game with a remarkable 42 points and 22 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win for the top seeds. His impressive performance included a two-minute stretch in the third quarter where he picked up three fouls, staying in the game despite the Thunder leading 73-64.

Thunder’s Late Mistakes Prove Costly

The Thunder had a chance to seal the game, but Chet Holmgren missed two free throws with the Thunder leading by a point, opening the door for Denver’s late comeback.

Gordon Clutch in Back-to-Back Playoff Games

Gordon’s game-winning three-pointer was his second clutch play in as many games. Just last week, he sank a buzzer-beater dunk against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the playoffs.

Statistical Leaders

• Points: Nikola Jokić (Nuggets) – 42, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder) – 33
• Rebounds: Nikola Jokić (Nuggets) – 22, Aaron Gordon (Nuggets) – 14
• Assists: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder) – 8, Russell Westbrook (Nuggets) – 7

What’s Next?

Game 2 of the Western Conference semi-finals will take place in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night. The Nuggets will look to build on their momentum, while the Thunder will seek redemption after squandering a late lead.