Thunder Leads Nuggets 3-2 Despite Jokic's 44-Point Game

The Denver Nuggets are facing elimination after a Game 5 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals, with the series now 3-2 in favor of Oklahoma City. Despite Nikola Jokic's spectacular 44-point, 15-rebound, and 5-assist performance on highly efficient shooting, the Nuggets' lack of offensive support in the fourth quarter, where his teammates combined for only six points on poor shooting, led to their defeat. Jokic's recent shooting slump, including his lowest shooting efficiency in three straight games, has coincided with the Thunder's strategic defensive adjustments, especially the introduction of Isaiah Hartenstein to guard him more effectively. Fatigue has been a factor for Jokic, who has logged heavy minutes in a demanding playoff schedule, but he has dismissed it as an excuse. The Thunder capitalized on Denver’s lack of depth and defensive resilience, outscoring the Nuggets significantly in the fourth quarter and taking a crucial series lead. Nuggets interim coach David Adelman emphasized the need for other players to find their rhythm to complement Jokic's efforts if Denver hopes to force a Game 7.