Nuggets vs. Thunder – Game 7 Preview
Sunday, 3:30 p.m. ET • Paycom Center, Oklahoma City
Our Pick: Nuggets +8

Game 7 between the Denver Nuggets and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Western Conference Semifinals is set to be a thrilling conclusion to a tightly contested series. With everything on the line, both teams are preparing for an intense battle, but the Nuggets find themselves particularly well-positioned to cover the +8 spread.

Denver enters Game 7 riding momentum from an impressive Game 6 victory, a convincing 119-107 win fueled by their superstar center Nikola Jokić. Jokić has been dominant throughout the series, and his Game 6 performance—29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists—reinforced his critical role. His elite playmaking ability and consistent efficiency present significant matchup problems for Oklahoma City’s defense.

Jamal Murray’s resilience has also played a crucial part in Denver’s postseason run. Despite battling illness, Murray managed to score 25 points in Game 6, highlighting his ability to deliver under pressure. His capability to stretch the floor and hit clutch shots complements Jokić perfectly, forcing OKC to spread their defense thin.

Another key factor supporting Denver’s likelihood to cover the spread is their bench production. Role players like Christian Braun, who exploded for 23 points in Game 6, give the Nuggets a depth advantage. Braun’s scoring outburst not only provided offensive relief but demonstrated Denver’s versatility beyond their starting unit.

Conversely, Oklahoma City has relied heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. While SGA has performed exceptionally, averaging over 28 points per game in the playoffs, the Thunder’s inconsistent outside shooting (32.6% from three in the series) limits their offensive flexibility. Additionally, Denver’s strong rebounding presence—led by Jokić, averaging nearly 15 rebounds per game—significantly restricts OKC’s second-chance opportunities.

Injury concerns loom for Denver, particularly with Aaron Gordon’s questionable status due to a hamstring issue. However, Denver has already shown resilience in the face of adversity, adapting effectively to lineup adjustments.

Given the Nuggets’ recent form, depth advantage, and strong interior presence, they are in a favorable position not just to keep Game 7 competitive but to potentially secure an outright upset, comfortably covering the +8 spread in what promises to be an intense, closely contested showdown.