The Denver Nuggets return to Ball Arena for Game 4 of their Western Conference Semifinal matchup against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder with the series momentum firmly in their favor after a dramatic overtime win in Game 3. The victory gave the Nuggets a 2-1 series lead and a psychological edge, reestablishing their identity as a resilient, playoff-tested squad capable of withstanding even the most explosive offensive teams. While two-time MVP Nikola Jokic remains the heartbeat of Denver’s offense, the Thunder have done a commendable job neutralizing his playmaking, forcing him into tough shots and limiting his assist totals. However, that has only created space for other contributors like Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr., who have stepped up consistently, hitting timely shots and taking advantage of the mismatches created when Oklahoma City collapses on Jokic. Gordon’s physicality and rebounding have been especially vital, while Porter Jr.’s perimeter scoring and defensive activity have provided Denver with a crucial boost in transition and late possessions. Jamal Murray, while still recovering his full rhythm, has found ways to impact the game as a secondary playmaker and mid-range threat, forcing the Thunder to constantly shift their defensive schemes. On the defensive end, Denver has committed to crowding the paint, disrupting Oklahoma City’s drives, and closing out hard on shooters. The result has been a noticeable dip in the Thunder’s shooting efficiency, particularly in half-court sets where Denver’s communication and veteran awareness allow them to rotate quickly and close gaps.

Coach Michael Malone has executed a savvy game plan thus far, mixing in zone looks, exploiting Oklahoma City’s inexperience in crunch time, and maximizing the second unit’s energy to sustain momentum. The Nuggets’ bench—featuring key minutes from Reggie Jackson, Christian Braun, and Peyton Watson—has not only held leads but extended them, shifting the burden off the starters and allowing for more strategic rotations. Another major advantage has been Denver’s dominance on the offensive glass, where they’ve consistently created second-chance opportunities that demoralize opposing defenses and wear down Oklahoma City’s interior. With Game 4 set in the altitude and noise of Ball Arena, Denver now has the opportunity to put a stranglehold on the series by securing a 3-1 lead before heading back to Oklahoma City. That experience, combined with their home-court poise and high-IQ basketball, makes them a formidable opponent. To close the door on the Thunder, the Nuggets must continue punishing them inside, staying disciplined on the defensive end, and maintaining balanced scoring across their rotation. If Jokic’s supporting cast continues to deliver and the team controls the pace the way they did in Game 3, Denver will not only strengthen its hold on this series but also reassert itself as the team to beat in the West. Game 4 could be the defining chapter, and the Nuggets are poised to seize it with their trademark blend of patience, precision, and power.