The Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face off in a decisive Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. ET at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. This high-stakes Nuggets vs Thunder Game 7 features two of the league’s premier talents, Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, both vying for a spot in the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Nuggets vs Thunder Game 7 Preview
The series has been a rollercoaster, with both teams showcasing their strengths. The Thunder, boasting a league-best 68-14 regular-season record, have demonstrated exceptional defensive prowess, allowing just 105.3 points per game in the playoffs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been instrumental, averaging 28.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game in the postseason.
On the other side, the Nuggets, the 2023 NBA Champions, have relied heavily on Nikola Jokić, who is averaging a triple-double with 26.7 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game in the playoffs. Denver’s offense has been efficient, averaging 108.1 points per game, but their defense has been tested, allowing 110.8 points per game.
In Game 6, Denver forced a Game 7 with a 119-107 victory, thanks to strong performances from Jokić, Jamal Murray, and a breakout game from Julian Strawther, who contributed 15 points off the bench. However, the Nuggets face uncertainty with Aaron Gordon listed as questionable due to a left hamstring strain. Gordon has been a key contributor, averaging 14.5 points and 9.2 rebounds per game in the series.
Betting Insights
The betting lines from DraftKings Sportsbook for Game 7 have the Thunder favored by 8 points, reflecting their strong home-court advantage and defensive capabilities. The over/under is set at 213.5 points, indicating expectations for a high-scoring affair.
- Spread: Thunder -8
- Total Points: Over/Under 213.5
- Moneyline: Thunder -298, Nuggets +240
Player prop bets to consider:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Over 31.5 Points: SGA has scored 31 or more points in four of the six games in this series so far.
- Nikola Jokić Over 13.5 Rebounds: Jokić has consistently surpassed this mark, making it a strong consideration for bettors.
Nuggets vs Thunder Game 7 Prediction
Game 7s are often unpredictable, but several factors tilt the scales in favor of the Thunder. Their defensive tenacity, home-court advantage, and the health concerns surrounding Aaron Gordon provide them with a slight edge. While the Nuggets have the experience and the reigning MVP in Jokić, the Thunder’s depth and momentum could prove decisive.
Expect a tightly contested game, but the Thunder’s ability to control the pace and capitalize on turnovers may be the difference-maker. Bettors might find value in backing the Nuggets to cover the spread and considering the over on total points, given both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Prediction: Thunder 115, Nuggets 108
