Thu May 08 23:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Thunder Shock Nuggets, Knicks Take Commanding 2-0 Lead Over Celtics

**Oklahoma City, OK & New York, NY –** The NBA Playoffs delivered stunning upsets on Wednesday night, as both the Oklahoma City Thunder and the New York Knicks secured commanding victories.

The Thunder, after losing Game 1 on a buzzer-beater, emphatically bounced back, defeating the Denver Nuggets 149-106. This win marked an NBA record for most points scored in a single game in the play-by-play era (1997-98). Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 34 points, while eight Oklahoma City players scored in double figures. The Thunder dominated, shooting 56.2% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range. Their impressive ball movement resulted in 31 assists, while their defense forced 21 Nuggets turnovers.

“We came out here desperate,” said Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder’s resurgence was attributed to improved ball movement, offensive execution, and stronger rebounding, which had been a weakness in Game 1. The series now shifts to Denver for Game 3 on Friday.

Meanwhile, in New York, the Knicks extended their series lead over the Boston Celtics to 2-0 with another dramatic comeback win. Down by 20 points in the fourth quarter, similar to Game 1, the Knicks rallied, taking the lead with under two minutes left. Jalen Brunson’s clutch plays and Mikal Bridges’ crucial late-game defense, including a game-sealing steal, propelled New York to victory. Josh Hart led the Knicks with 23 points, while Bridges, scoreless through three quarters, finished with 14. The Celtics struggled offensively, shooting just 36.2% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc. Jayson Tatum’s struggles continued, as he finished with only 13 points on poor shooting. Game 3 will be held in New York on Saturday.

The Knicks’ acquisition of Bridges is paying huge dividends, as his defensive prowess and late-game heroics have been instrumental in their victories. Conversely, the Celtics’ offensive woes, particularly Tatum’s subpar performance and the team’s cold shooting from three-point range, are raising serious concerns. The defending champions look rattled and are struggling to maintain their composure in crucial moments. The series’ next games are crucial for both teams.

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