The Denver Nuggets bounced back in a big way in Game 6, securing a convincing win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in front of their home crowd on Thursday night. After letting a nine-point fourth-quarter lead slip away in Game 5, the Nuggets flipped the script this time, dominating the final period and putting the game out of reach.
A key difference in Game 6 was the team’s ability to maintain control even while giving Nikola Jokić a much-needed rest. Unlike Game 5, when Jokić played the entire second half and the team faltered late, this time the reigning MVP sat for nearly four minutes in the fourth quarter and returned to a larger lead than when he exited. The improved rotation and fresher legs paid off.
Interim head coach David Adelman had taken responsibility for the Game 5 collapse, acknowledging the poor fourth-quarter execution. According to The Denver Post’s Bennett Durando, Adelman admitted his mistakes in managing rotations and adjustments down the stretch. In Game 6, those issues were addressed.
One of the bright spots off the bench was rookie guard Julian Strawther, who stepped up in the final quarter. Strawther scored seven of his 15 total points in the fourth, providing a spark on both ends of the court and helping Denver close the game strong.
With the win, the Nuggets move on with renewed momentum and a timely reminder of how crucial bench contributions and smarter rotation management can be in a tightly contested playoff series.
Nuggets Notes: Fourth Quarter, Strawther, Murray, Gordon, Jokic https://t.co/Nt9b0NQz1Q pic.twitter.com/XOtTyJD5gN
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) May 16, 2025
