OKC Thunder Rout Nuggets 149-106 in Game 2 Playoff Victory

After losing a close 121-119 Game 1 to the Denver Nuggets, the Oklahoma City Thunder responded with a dominant 149-106 victory in Game 2, tying their Western Conference semifinal series at 1-1. The Thunder set an NBA playoff record by scoring 87 points in the first half, breaking the previous record held by the Cleveland Cavaliers, and matched the record for most points in any half of a playoff game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with 18 first-half points, and strong performances from multiple players contributed to the blowout win. In Game 1, despite a strong start and a double-digit halftime lead for OKC, Denver rallied behind Nikola Jokic's 42-point, 22-rebound effort, while Aaron Gordon hit the game-winner. OKC's bench struggled in the opener and their three-point shooting woes continued, but adjustments in Game 2 led to improved rebounding and offensive balance. The series now heads to Denver with both teams having showcased their strengths and vulnerabilities.