Thunder vs. Nuggets: Game 4 Preview, Predictions, How to Watch

The Denver Nuggets host the Oklahoma City Thunder this afternoon, up 2–1 in their Western Conference Semifinals series.

This series has had an element of the bizarre. The team that’s ahead also suffered a 43-point loss in one of its three games — a reminder of just how unpredictable this series has been and how it could swing in any direction.

The Thunder led for most of Game 3 — never by double digits, but with control — only to squander the lead in the fourth quarter and fall to the Nuggets in overtime. Once again, execution in the final minutes will be key.

All eyes will be on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was held to just 18 points in Game 3 and was scoreless in the overtime period. Jalen Williams was exceptional, scoring 33 points, but Gilgeous-Alexander can’t afford another off night. This afternoon’s game will be a test of his leadership — and it could very well determine the fate of the series.

The Thunder must win to avoid the brink of elimination and a second straight second-round playoff exit, despite finishing with one of the best regular-season records in NBA history. They are a team built on extraordinary depth, and have managed to contain Nikola Jokic over the past two games — over which he’s scoring 34% from the field. But the Nuggets have managed to find another gear when it matters most.

For Oklahoma City, the plan may simply be to repeat Game 2: go big or go home. Expect the Thunder to come out strong and even the series at two games apiece.

Series Prediction: Thunder in seven.

How to Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets

Today’s Thunder-Nuggets game tips off just after 3:30 PM Eastern. The game airs live on ABC and streams on the ABC website and app.