Sun May 11 22:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Nuggets Edge Out Thunder in Thrilling Game 3, Despite Jokić’s Struggles

**DENVER, CO** – The Denver Nuggets have taken a commanding 3-1 lead in their Western Conference Semifinal series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, winning a dramatic 113-104 overtime victory on Friday night. The win comes despite a subpar performance from two-time MVP Nikola Jokić, who shot just 8-of-25 from the field and committed eight turnovers.

Jokić’s struggles were overshadowed by the heroic performances of his teammates. Jamal Murray led the scoring with 27 points, including a dominant fourth quarter and overtime. Aaron Gordon added 22 points, hitting a crucial game-tying three-pointer in the final seconds of regulation. Remarkably, Michael Porter Jr., playing with a severely sprained shoulder requiring a lidocaine injection, contributed 21 points, hitting several key shots early in the game.

The Nuggets’ defensive performance was a stark contrast to their regular season showing. After boasting one of the league’s worst defenses, Denver has found a new level of intensity in the playoffs, holding the high-powered Thunder offense in check in crucial moments. They limited Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to 7-of-22 shooting and stifled the Thunder in overtime, holding them to just 1-of-7 from the field.

Denver’s interim coach, David Adelman, attributed the team’s success to their ability to stay competitive in close games, leveraging their playoff experience to execute effectively down the stretch. The Thunder, who have rarely faced tight games this season, appeared rattled in the final minutes.

The Nuggets’ playoff run is all the more impressive given their recent turmoil, including a front-office shakeup just a month ago. Their resilience and team unity have propelled them to the brink of the Western Conference Finals, despite the Thunder’s superior athleticism and depth. Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday afternoon.

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