Thunder vs. Nuggets: Game 6 Preview, Predictions, How to Watch

The Denver Nuggets are in must-win mode tonight as they host the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals. And they may have to do it without their second-best scorer.

UPDATE — 8:41 PM Eastern: Jamal Murray, originally listed as questionable due to illness, will now start for the Nuggets. But if he’s yanked early, Denver’s chances of forcing a Game 7 drop dramatically.

Murray is the team’s No. 2 scorer and one of just as many consistent offensive options Denver can count on.

Without Murray near 100%, the Nuggets will need extraordinary output from a supporting cast that has largely underperformed this series. Frankly, if Murray doesn’t play near full strength, the Nuggets can kiss their playoff hopes goodbye.

Nikola Jokić remains the foundation of Denver’s offense and defense. He bounced back in Game 5 with a monster performance: 44 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals on 17-of-25 shooting. But even with Jokić dominating, the Nuggets still came up short — highlighting how thin their margin for error is.

Denver doesn’t go deep into its bench and relies heavily on Jokić and Murray to generate offense. In Game 5, the Nuggets’ bench scored just 10 points, while Oklahoma City’s second unit contributed 22.

For the Nuggets to stand a chance, they will need big nights from Michael Porter Jr. and Russell Westbrook. Porter has had multiple games this series in which he played nearly 30 minutes and made just one field goal.

Expect Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to lead the charge again for Oklahoma City, likely topping 30 points. If the Thunder get even average production from their bench and complementary scorers, they’ll be in prime position to close out the series.

Jokić may still produce a blockbuster night and keep Denver alive. But if Murray is less than 100%, expect the Thunder to finish the job — either tonight or in a potential Game 7.

In all likelihood, the Nuggets are going home — at home.

Series Prediction: Thunder in six.

How to Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets

Tonight’s Thunder-Nuggets game tips off just after 8:30 PM Eastern. The game airs live on ESPN and streams on the ESPN app and website.