Nuggets vs Thunder Game 7 Set After Denver’s Crucial Game 6 Win
The high-stakes Nuggets vs Thunder Game 7 is officially set after Denver’s 119-107 victory in Game 6, powered by a gutsy performance from Julian Strawther—who not only delivered 15 crucial points off the bench but even lost a tooth in the process.
Julian Strawther Ignites Bench in Nuggets vs Thunder Game 6 Thriller
Given his first major opportunity in the series, second-year guard Julian Strawther came off the bench with intensity, scoring all 15 of his points in the second half. His clutch performance powered the Nuggets to a 119-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, forcing a decisive Nuggets vs Thunder Game 7 showdown on Sunday in O
“That’s the kind of moment you dream about as a kid,” Strawther said. “To go out there, have your teammates believe in you, and impact the game—that’s everything.”
Strawther Loses a Tooth but Sparks Nuggets vs Thunder Game 6 Victory
Strawther’s effort was so intense, it cost him a prosthetic tooth. In the fourth quarter, he took a hit from a Thunder player that knocked it loose. While he motioned to the officials to pause the game so he could retrieve it, play continued. Fortunately, a ball boy recovered the tooth and returned it to the Nuggets’ bench.
Strawther later explained that the tooth—next to his front one—was a prosthetic placed after he lost his baby tooth as a child and never developed a permanent replacement.
“We got it back,” he joked after the game.
Denver Bench Finally Delivers
Aside from Strawther, Denver also benefited from solid bench contributions by Russell Westbrook (8 points) and Peyton Watson (4 points). Although the Thunder reserves still outscored Denver’s bench 32-27, the Nuggets’ second unit brought crucial energy and rhythm, especially in the absence of their starters during stretches of the second half.
Until Game 6, Oklahoma City’s bench had held a scoring advantage through five games, averaging 34 points to Denver’s 22.
Jokic Praises Strawther’s Poise Under Pressure
Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic, who tallied 29 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists, praised Strawther’s performance.
“Julian was amazing,” Jokic said. “He stepped up in the big moments, made big plays, and gave us that energy off the bench when we needed it most.”
Strawther finished 3-of-4 from beyond the arc and was a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. He played nearly 20 minutes—his most in the postseason so far—after being limited to just 14 minutes over the previous three games, including a complete benching in Game 3.
Adelman’s Trust Pays Off
Interim head coach David Adelman had advised Strawther to be ready for his opportunity. That trust paid off in a must-win game.
“There are nights I don’t know if I’ll play,” Strawther said. “And then there are nights like this when the coach decides to ride with me. I’m thankful for that trust.”
Strawther also credited his transparent relationship with Adelman for helping him stay mentally prepared through the series.
Injury Updates: Gordon and Porter Jr.
Denver’s rotation could shift again heading into Game 7, depending on the status of forward Aaron Gordon, who exited late in Game 6 with a hamstring strain.
“I feel okay,” Gordon said. “I’m starting recovery right away to try and be ready for Sunday.”
Meanwhile, Michael Porter Jr. continues to play through a sprained left shoulder. He scored 10 points on 4-of-9 shooting and revealed he took a lidocaine injection before Game 6. He plans to take another before the next game.
“I haven’t been able to get into a rhythm like I want to,” Porter admitted. “But I’m doing what I can—spacing the floor, shooting when I get the chance, and staying confident.”
Game 7 Awaits in Oklahoma City
With the series tied 3-3, everything now hinges on Nuggets vs Thunder Game 7. Denver’s bench has found its stride, Jokic continues to lead with authority, and Strawther has emerged as a wild-card contributor when it matters most.
The showdown in Oklahoma City promises to be a fierce battle between two hungry teams—and only one will move on.
