Fri May 16 09:05:04 UTC 2025: ## Nuggets Force Game 7 as Strawther’s Spark, and Lost Tooth, Ignites Victory

**DENVER, CO** – Julian Strawther’s unexpected surge off the bench fueled the Denver Nuggets to a crucial 119-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder Thursday night, forcing a decisive Game 7 in their playoff series. Strawther, a second-year guard, scored all 15 of his points in the second half, injecting much-needed energy into the Nuggets’ offense.

“That’s the moment you dream of,” Strawther said, reflecting on his impactful performance.

The game wasn’t without its quirks. In the fourth quarter, Strawther lost a prosthetic tooth after taking contact. Undeterred, he focused on the game, trusting a ball boy to recover the missing piece. “We got it back,” Strawther confirmed, displaying a sense of humor after the win.

Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists, but he praised Strawther’s contribution: “(Julian) was amazing. He had the big points, the big moments of the game.” Strawther’s 3-of-4 shooting from beyond the arc proved critical, particularly in the fourth quarter when he helped maintain Denver’s lead while Jokic rested.

The Nuggets’ bench, also featuring contributions from Russell Westbrook and Peyton Watson, outplayed the Thunder’s reserves. The win was crucial after the Nuggets surrendered a lead in Game 5.

However, the victory comes with concerns. Aaron Gordon suffered a left hamstring injury late in the game, casting doubt on his availability for Game 7. Meanwhile, Michael Porter Jr. continues to battle a sprained left shoulder, relying on pain management to stay on the court. “I’m still out there and still trying to space the floor,” Porter Jr. stated, acknowledging the discomfort.

The Nuggets now travel to Oklahoma City for Game 7, where they will face the Thunder in a winner-take-all showdown.

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