6 takeaways from the Thunder Game 1 loss to Nuggets: Missed chances, clutch shots & coaching questions

The Oklahoma City Thunder let Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals slip away, falling to the Denver Nuggets after leading for much of the night.

1. Thunder let one slip away

Oklahoma City had control for most of Game 1, holding double-digit leads and appearing to outpace the defending champs with fresher legs. But they couldn’t close, a troubling sign in playoff basketball. Chet Holmgren’s missed free throws, poor rebounding (allowing 27 second-chance points), and untimely fouls gave Denver extra possessions and ultimately cost OKC the game. Championship teams execute in the final five minutes. The Thunder didn't on this night.

FULL RECAP: Gordon's game-winner, Jokic's 42 points, 22 rebounds lead Nuggets past Thunder in West Semis Game 1

2. Coaching decisions under the microscope

Mark Daigneault’s choices in the final moments, particularly fouling up three too early and not using Nikola Jokić’s absence from the floor to full advantage, were costly. Admitting postgame that execution of the fouling strategy was “on him” shows accountability, but this is the playoffs, where details win games. OKC gave up a game-winning shot with Jokić standing at the scorer’s table. That’s a missed opportunity they may not get back.

WATCH: Thunder fall short in Game 1: Daigneault takes responsibility for execution in late-game collapse

3. Nuggets' rotation wears thin

While Denver came away with the win, their short rotation raises long-term concerns. Three starters played 40+ minutes, and they leaned heavily on veterans with limited bench help. If this series stretches to six or seven games, the fatigue factor could swing things back toward Oklahoma City. The Nuggets’ heart and resilience masked it in Game 1, but can it last?

4. Shai carried, but needs more help

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was sensational (33 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists), but he needs more consistent support to get past Denver. Jalen Williams, in particular, must bounce back. His 5-of-20 shooting and 2-of-9 from deep were tough to overcome. OKC’s offense can’t just rely on Shai’s brilliance. If Williams wants to cement himself as a legit No. 2 option, that starts with a bounce-back Game 2.

SGA & Jalen Williams Postgame Press Conference ⬇️

5. Alex Caruso Proved His Playoff Worth

Acquired in the offseason for moments like this, Caruso rewarded OKC with his best game as a Thunder: 20 points, 5-of-9 from three, five steals, two blocks, and relentless defense. His energy kept the Thunder in control for most of the night but it wasn’t enough.

6. The Nuggets’ Championship DNA Was on Full Display

Denver showed the poise of a reigning champion. Despite trailing by double digits for much of the game, they executed down the stretch and refused to fold. Aaron Gordon’s buzzer-beating 3 was the exclamation point, but it was the Nuggets’ mental toughness, particularly in the final minutes, that proved they’re unfazed by OKC’s regular-season dominance.