Denver controlled the second half at Ball Arena on Friday night, pulling away for a 127-107 win over Oklahoma City in a matchup defined by reserve rotations and late-game execution.
Jonas Valanciunas anchored the interior with season highs of 23 points and 17 rebounds, adding physicality on both ends. The veteran center also contributed four assists while setting the tone in the paint throughout the contest.
The Nuggets (53-28) extended their winning streak to 11 games, locking in at least the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. Denver also remained in position to push for the No. 3 seed heading into the final game of the regular season.
Julian Strawther provided consistent perimeter scoring with 22 points, while David Roddy delivered a season-high 21 points off the bench. Denver’s depth became the key separator as the second unit maintained pressure after halftime.
The game shifted decisively during a fourth-quarter surge. A 21-5 run to open the final period broke the contest open and erased any remaining Oklahoma City resistance.
The Nuggets entered the night without their entire starting lineup, opting for rest while balancing playoff positioning. The decision aligned with their broader approach to prioritize health over immediate seeding gains.
Oklahoma City (64-17) had already secured the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and also rested most key contributors. Luguentz Dort was the only starter in action, finishing with five points while reaching his required minutes threshold for award eligibility.
Branden Carlson led the Thunder with 23 points and 12 rebounds, providing inside scoring against Denver’s reserve frontcourt. Oklahoma City briefly trimmed a nine-point deficit to two late in the third quarter.
That momentum was short-lived after Zeke Nnaji hit a corner three that sparked a 17-0 run. Denver used that stretch to regain full control before closing the game comfortably.
Statistically, Denver shot 49% from the field and 21-of-43 from three-point range, maintaining efficient spacing throughout. Oklahoma City finished 42% from the field and struggled to contain transition scoring after turnovers.
With the win, Denver continues its push toward the postseason as one of the league’s hottest teams. The Nuggets close the regular season on the road against the San Antonio Spurs, while Oklahoma City prepares to finish at home after already locking up the top seed.
