Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased an impressive performance, scoring 40 points, with a notable 17 points coming in the third quarter, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a convincing 119-93 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night.

Chet Holmgren contributed significantly with 24 points, displaying his skills on the court. Josh Giddy added 12 points, while Jalen Williams made a solid impact with 11 points and nine assists. The Thunder, currently on a three-game winning streak, secured their second victory over the Nuggets in two weeks.

Despite Nikola Jokic’s 19 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, the Nuggets saw their six-game winning streak come to an end. Peyton Watson scored 14 points, Michael Porter Jr. had 12 points, and Jamal Murray contributed 11 assists for Denver. The absence of forward Aaron Gordon, recovering from dog bites resulting in lacerations on his hands and face, added to the Nuggets’ challenges.

Oklahoma City held a slim six-point lead at halftime, but they extended their advantage in the third quarter. A notable eight-point run, capped by a running dunk from Luguentz Dort, pushed the lead to 64-54. The Thunder continued to dominate, with Williams’ fadeaway and a 3-pointer from Gilgeous-Alexander further widening the gap to 73-58. A sequence of key plays, including a layup by Gilgeous-Alexander and baskets by Isaiah Joe, resulted in an 80-60 lead with 3:52 left in the third.

Entering the final quarter with an 88-68 lead, the Thunder maintained control. Although the Nuggets attempted a comeback, narrowing the gap to 93-78 with a 3-pointer from Reggie Jackson, the Thunder responded with crucial 3-pointers by Kenrich Williams and Jalen Williams, establishing a commanding 21-point lead.

Jalen Williams’ additional 3-pointer at 102-80 with 6:49 left and Holmgren’s fourth successful 3-pointer effectively extinguished any hopes of a Denver comeback. Holmgren’s perfect 4-for-4 record from long distance added to the Thunder’s dominance.

While the Nuggets scored an impressive 41 points in the third quarter of their previous game, they struggled in the first half against the Thunder, managing only 48 points. Turnovers plagued Denver, with nine in the first half, including seven in the second quarter and three consecutive possessions.

Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren were the primary contributors in the first half, combining for 35 points and propelling the Thunder to a 54-48 lead at halftime.