Nuggets vs. Thunder Picks & Odds: NBA Playoffs Game 2, 5/7

The Denver Nuggets face the Oklahoma City Thunder in game two of the Western Conference Semifinals today, May 7, 2025, with the Nuggets holding a 1 - 0 series lead after a thrilling, come-from-behind, last-second game winner. This matchup, airing on TNT, pits two Western Conference powerhouses against each other, with Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading their respective squads. Here’s a breakdown of the storylines, odds, betting picks, and everything you need to know to bet on this high-stakes playoff game.
Denver Nuggets: Rolling Like an Avalanche Coming Down A Mountain
The Nuggets are coming off what some might call a surprising win, with a brilliant performance in the last few minutes of the fourth quarter. Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, continues to be an unstoppable force. He played 42 minutes, scored 42 points, recorded 22 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists. Just like an avalanche, he is truly an unstoppable force of nature, and although everyone is aware of it, few can do anything to prevent the damage that is coming.
However, they have lost three games in these playoffs, and someone besides Jokic will need to step up for game two. Jamal Murray, known as “Playoff Jamal,” struggled in game two, making just 6 of 16 field goals, and Michael Porter’s lingering shoulder issue limited his impact. The Nuggets’ storyline revolves around whether their veteran core can keep displaying their championship pedigree.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Bounce Back or Double Dribble?
The Thunder breezed through the first round but are not up against the Memphis Grizzlies anymore, a former NBA champion team. The Thunder had an NBA-best 68-14 regular-season record and a +19.8 net rating in the first round, but Oklahoma City’s depth and defensive versatility were not enough to get past the Nuggets in game one.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a leading MVP candidate, dropped 33 points and 7 assists, while Luguentz Dort’s lockdown defense and 14 points added balance. The addition of Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein has bolstered OKC’s already elite defense, which ranked third in the NBA during the regular season. The Thunder’s storyline is figuring out a way to slow down their division rival and proving they can handle Denver’s championship pedigree in a playoff setting.
Nuggets vs. Thunder Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines
Here are the latest odds for game two, sourced from major sportsbooks:
- Spread: Thunder -11.0 (-110) | Nuggets +11.0 (-110)
- Moneyline: Thunder -520 | Nuggets +410
- Total (Over/Under): 229.5 (Over -110 | Under -110)
- Player Props (via FanDuel):
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Over 32.5 Points (-118O/-112U)
- Nikola Jokic Over 28.5 Points (-102O/-130U)
The Thunder opened as double-digit favorites, but that seems highly unlikely to happen. The total has moved to 229.5 points, reflecting Denver’s ability to score at will and the Thunder’s hopes of matching it.
Nuggets vs. Thunder Best Bet: Nuggets +11.0 (-110)
While the Thunder are the superior team on paper, the eleven-point spread feels inflated for a Nuggets squad with championship experience. Denver’s game one was not a fluke, and Jokic, Murray, and Aaron Gordon are becoming an all-time playoff trio.
Murray’s 2.7 projected three-pointers made (per FanDuel Research) suggest he could heat up from deep, and Jokic’s ability to exploit Oklahoma City’s interior defense should keep this game competitive. The Nuggets covered in four of seven games against the Clippers, including three of the last four. Jamal Murray has been +12, +19, +2, and +17 in his last four playoff games, and he should improve his offensive production for game two. Expect Denver to keep game two within single digits, or possibly win the match.
How To Watch Nuggets vs. Thunder on TNT Today
- Date: Tuesday, May 7, 2025
- Time: 9:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. MT)
- Channel: TNT
- Streaming: Max, NBA League Pass
- Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Fans can catch the game live on TNT or stream it via Max or NBA League Pass. Check local listings for regional broadcast details.
Nuggets vs. Thunder Injury Report & Starting Lineup
Injury Report
- Denver Nuggets:
- No injuries reported, but Michael Porter is dealing with a grade II A/C Joint sprain
- Oklahoma City Thunder:
- No injuries reported
Projected Starting Lineups
- Nuggets: PG Jamal Murray, SG Christian Braun, SF Michael Porter, PF Aaron Gordon, C Nikola Jokic
- Thunder: PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, SG Luguentz Dort, SF Jalen Williams, PF Chet Holmgren, C Isaiah Hartenstein
Denver’s thin bench (relying heavily on Russell Westbrook and Peyton Watson) could be a factor, while Oklahoma City’s deep rotation, including Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace, gives them flexibility.
How To Bet On Nuggets vs. Thunder at FanDuel Sportsbook & Claim Your $150 Bonus
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