The Denver Nuggets reminded everyone why they’re still the team to beat in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. After getting embarrassed in Game 2 with a 43-point loss, they bounced back in a big way—grabbing a 113–104 overtime win over OKC (Oklahoma City Thunder) in Game 3. The win gives Denver a 2–1 lead in the series, and the momentum has definitely shifted in their favor.
Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon Deliver When It Matters Most
Let’s talk about Jamal Murray—the guy just knows how to show up in the playoffs. He led the Nuggets with 27 points and made clutch shot after clutch shot, especially down the stretch. Whether it was his pull-up mid-range jumpers or his calm under pressure, Murray was the steady hand Denver needed.
Right beside him was Aaron Gordon, who had one of his most complete games in a Nuggets jersey. He dropped 22 points, including a huge basket that tied the game late in the fourth and sent it to overtime. His energy, defense, and hustle were exactly what the Gordon Nuggets fans love about him.
And then there’s Michael Porter Jr.—smooth as ever. He added 21 points and knocked down key threes that helped Denver stay in the game when the offense looked stuck. It’s easy to overlook his impact, but Michael Porter Jr is showing real growth this postseason.
Even Off-Night Jokić Finds a Way to Impact the Game
Nikola Jokić didn’t have his best shooting night—far from it, actually. He scored 20 points but went just 8-for-25 from the field and missed all ten of his three-point attempts. Still, he grabbed 16 rebounds and handed out 6 assists. That’s what makes him so special—even when his shot isn’t falling, he affects the game in so many other ways.
In overtime, Jokić set the tone by scoring the first basket and anchoring the defense. Credit also goes to Nuggets coach Michael Malone, who made smart adjustments late in the game that helped clamp down on OKC’s offense.
OKC Comes Up Short Despite Jalen Williams’ Big Night
The Thunder had their chances. Jalen Williams was brilliant with 32 points, showing just how dangerous OKC’s young core can be. But MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a rare off-night. He finished with 18 points on 7-of-22 shooting, struggling to find a rhythm against Denver’s pressure defense.
Rookie big man Chet Holmgren played well, putting up 18 points and 16 rebounds, but OKC couldn’t get anything going in overtime. They managed just one made field goal in the entire extra period.
What’s Next: A Crucial Game 4 and the Updated Nuggets Schedule
Game 4 is coming up this Sunday at Ball Arena, and it’s a big one. The latest Nuggets schedule has Denver with a chance to go up 3–1 and put real pressure on the Thunder heading back to OKC.
Nuggets coach Malone said it best after the game: “We fought back like champions. But we haven’t done anything yet. This series is far from over.” He’s right—OKC is young, fearless, and talented. But if Denver keeps playing like this—especially with Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. firing on all cylinders—they might be impossible to stop.
Final Thoughts
This was more than just a win for Denver. It was a gut-check. It was a reminder to everyone watching the NBA Playoffs 2025 that the Nuggets aren’t going down without a fight.
OKC will regroup and come out swinging in Game 4. But for now, the defending champs have taken back control—and their stars are shining when it matters most.
Keep an eye on the Nuggets schedule for the latest updates, and don’t miss Game 4. If this game was any indication, we’re in for another wild night of playoff basketball.
