The Denver Nuggets host the Oklahoma City Thunder at Ball Arena in a crucial game six. The stakes are high as the two leading MVP candidates square off. Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets are in a win-or-be-eliminated scenario, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is seeking his first trip to a conference finals. There are several great betting angles for this match, and this division rivalry is starting to heat up. This article is a deep dive into the storylines of each team, injury report, expected starting roster, and the best bet of this match.

Oklahoma City Thunder: One for the Road or Headed Back Home?

The Oklahoma City Thunder are seeking their first Western Conference Finals appearance since 2016 and the infamous 3 - 1 collapse against the Golden State Warriors. That loss prompted Kevin Durant to join a two-time championship team, staining his legacy as a superstar. That was the Thunder’s fourth conference finals appearance in five years, but they have been on a nine-year drought, in a state with just one major professional sports team.

Oklahoma loves their Thunder, and desperately wants them to get back to the Western Conference Finals. With the projected MVP leading the team and one win separating them from a season-long goal, the pressure and stakes could not be much higher. The question becomes, can they get this win on the road, or will they be forced into a fearful match against the best player in the NBA?

 

 

 

Denver Nuggets: In a Tight Spot

The Denver Nuggets have had two epic fourth-quarter collapses in the last two games. This series could have been over, as they have been the clearly better team. The pressure of not having a bench forces their starters to become lackadaisical late in the game. Instead of continuing what earned them the lead (attacking the paint and getting to the foul line), they have tired legs and settle for little ball movement and low-percentage three-point attempts. 

Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic have played in six game sevens, some of the most in the NBA. They both stated in their game five postgame interviews that they have absolute confidence they can force this series to a game seven. They will have to do just that if they hope to continue their season. It is difficult for visiting teams to come in and win at Denver, but the Thunder have proven they can do it in this series. 

The Nuggets are in a tight spot, but they have shown the strength to handle these moments. Some may say they are built for it.

 

 

 

Thunder vs Nuggets Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Here are the latest odds for game six from top sportsbooks:

  • Spread: Thunder -5.0 (-110) | Nuggets +5.0 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Thunder (-198) | Nuggets (+164)
  • Total (Over/Under): Over 216.5 (-110) | Under 216.5 (-110)

 

 

 

Thunder vs Nuggets Best Bet: Jamal Murray Over 21.5 Points (-105 on DraftKings Sportsbook)

Jamal Murray once again elevated his play in game five, but it wasn’t enough to win on the road. He (like several other players) is known for elevating his game in the playoffs, and tonight his team will rely on him to lead them to another victory. He scored 28 points in game five, and has gone over this point proposition in two of his last three games. 

In 12 2025 playoff matches, he has scored over 21.5 in five games, and 21 in three more. He is averaging 21.4 points per game in this series, and as the Thunder shift their focus to stopping Nikola Jokic, Murray must step up to deliver the offensive production. 

The Thunder have a deep bench and could put Luguentz Dort on Jamal Murray, along with rotational defensive pieces. However, Denver does not have a deep bench, and Jamal Murray will likely play over 40 minutes for the eleventh game of the 2025 playoffs. That, paired with his ability to score from all three levels, makes this NBA best bet achievable, and at near even odds, can not be passed up. Put a unit on this best bet at DraftKings, and for those new to the sports betting app, make sure to take advantage of the promotional offer below.

 

 

 

How To Watch Thunder vs Nuggets Today 5/15 

  • Date: Thursday May 15,, 2025
  • Time: 7:40 PM ET
  • Location: Ball Arena Denver, CO
  • TV: ESPN
  • Streaming: Fubo
  • Radio: ESPN Radio, local stations (WFAN 660 AM/101.9 FM for Knicks, 98.5 The Sports Hub for Celtics)

Check local listings or the NBA’s official schedule for the exact tip-off time, as it’s subject to change.

Thunder vs Nuggets Injury Report & Starting Lineup

Injury Report:

  • Thunder: No injuries reported
  • Nuggets: Hunter Tyson (Ankle)- OUT

Projected Starting Lineups:

 

 

Lineups are subject to change based on coaching decisions and injury updates.

 

 

 

How To Bet On Thunder vs Nuggets at DraftKings Sportsbook & Claim Your $150 Bonus

DraftKings Sportsbook offers a seamless platform for betting on the NBA, with competitive odds and a variety of markets, including spreads, moneylines, totals, and player props. New users can claim a **$150 bonus** with a simple sign-up offer. Here’s how to get started:

1. Sign Up: Visit DraftKings Sportsbook and click “Sign Up.”

2. Deposit: Make a minimum deposit (typically $5, but check terms).

3. Place a Bet: Wager at least $5 on any Thunder vs Nuggets market (e.g., Murray over 20.5, or Nuggets moneyline).

4. Claim Bonus: Win or lose, you’ll instantly receive six $25 bonus bets, totaling $150.

Promo Code: No promo code is required for this offer, but ensure you sign up through the promotional link on DraftKings’ website. Check DraftKings’ terms for eligibility (must be 21+, located in a legal betting state, and a new user). Additional promos, like boosted odds for Williams or Jokic props, may be available for game six, so explore the “Promotions” tab.

Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

This is a high-stakes match as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander looks to advance to the Conference Finals for the first time, or the Nuggets seek another game seven. Lock in your bets, tune into TNT, and enjoy the playoff intensity!

 

Bet Smart, Be Lucky - Iggy -