The Oklahoma City Thunder tie the playoff series after a dominant performance, exploiting Nikola Jokic’s off-night. Coach Adelman addresses locker room tension with a call for unity.
Thunder Strike Back to Level Series as Jokic Struggles: Adelman Issues Locker Room Warning
Game Recap: Thunder Respond with Grit and Precision
The Oklahoma City Thunder delivered a resounding answer in Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals, leveling the series 2-2 against the Denver Nuggets with a 112-98 victory. After a disappointing Game 3, the Thunder recalibrated their offensive schemes, exploited mismatches, and unleashed relentless energy on both ends of the court. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with 31 points, while rookie Chet Holmgren anchored the paint with a career-high six blocks.
Nikola Jokic’s Struggles Loom Large
Two-time MVP Nikola Jokic had one of his most underwhelming playoff performances, scoring just 15 points on 5-of-17 shooting. The Thunder’s defensive adjustments stifled Jokic’s usually efficient game, frequently doubling him in the post and forcing turnovers. Jokic appeared visibly frustrated, struggling to find rhythm as OKC’s length and pressure disrupted Denver’s pick-and-roll offense.
Thunder’s Team Chemistry a Key Advantage
What set the Thunder apart was their evident chemistry and unselfish play. Every starter scored in double figures, and the bench contributed 34 points. Head coach Mark Daigneault praised the team’s discipline and adaptability. “They played for each other. That’s what playoff basketball is about,” Daigneault said postgame. The locker room energy, in stark contrast to Denver’s, showed a group in sync and locked in.
Coach Adelman Issues Caution: ‘We Can’t Fracture’
Following the loss, Nuggets interim coach Rick Adelman addressed growing concerns about internal tension, sparked by visible disagreements during timeouts and muted bench reactions. “We can’t fracture now,” Adelman warned in the postgame presser. “The moment we start turning on each other, the series is over. We’ve got to regroup as a unit.” His comments suggest deeper issues may be simmering behind the scenes as Denver faces a resurgent Thunder squad.
Looking Ahead: Pivotal Game 5 Looms
With the series now tied, Game 5 becomes a defining moment for both franchises. The Thunder carry momentum and renewed confidence, while the Nuggets must solve their on-court execution and off-court cohesion. All eyes will be on Jokic’s response and whether Denver can rediscover the chemistry that made them title contenders. This Western Conference showdown is evolving into a psychological and strategic chess match.
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