Nuggets Take 2-1 Lead Despite Thunder's Record

The Denver Nuggets took a 2-1 lead in their Western Conference semifinal series against the Oklahoma City Thunder with an overtime win in Game 3, overcoming subpar shooting from Nikola Jokic thanks to key contributions from Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. Gordon hit a clutch three-pointer to force overtime, and the Nuggets outscored the Thunder 11-2 in the extra period. This followed Game 2, where the Thunder set an NBA playoff record by scoring 87 points in the first half and won 149-106, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Both Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander, MVP finalists, struggled in Game 3, but Denver's experience proved critical. The Thunder, previously dominant, now trail in the series as play shifts to Denver. The upcoming game is crucial as the Thunder try to tie the series against the defending champions.