Nuggets vs. Thunder Prediction and Odds: SGA and Jokic Clash in Pivotal Game 5

The Nuggets and Thunder have put on the most competitive series of the NBA Playoffs’ second round. When the action tips off on Tuesday night, expect Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic to star in an attempt to claim the lead of the series. For new users at FanDuel Sportsbook, you can bet $5 and receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins!

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When Game 5 between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder tips off, expect another competitive battle between two NBA Championship contenders. The Nuggets have shown they can take on the Thunder, but it can’t just be Jokic leading the way. The Thunder can’t afford to lose focus despite regaining home court advantage–Game 5 tips off at 9:30 PM EST at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Odds

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Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Pick

• My Pick: Spread - Denver Nuggets (+10.5) at FanDuel Sportsbook

It’s quite the number for a tense Game 5 matchup between two NBA Championship contenders. Denver has been solid against the spread versus Oklahoma City despite a massive blowout in Game 2, so don’t expect a major points differential between these teams. Oklahoma City will try to build off their last home game, a 43-point win, but the Nuggets have shown they have the quality to keep it well within 10.5. Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have starred throughout this series, so count on them to lead the way in Game 5.

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Denver Nuggets Preview

The Denver Nuggets squandered the home court advantage they earned with their Game 1 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The series is now a best-of-three contest, and Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon's improved play could give them an edge going into Game 5. What Denver can’t afford is another poor offensive night like in their Game 4 loss.

Game 4 between the Nuggets and Thunder didn't favor Denver. They scored 87 points on a paltry 31.3% from the field and 24.4% from three-point range. Their lack of depth exposed the Nuggets in Game 4, and they'll need more efficient contributions from their role players if they hope to take Game 5. Head coach David Adelman questioned his use of just eight players in Game 4, so don’t be surprised to see a more diverse lineup in Game 5.

Few Nuggets players impressed in Game 4, but Nikola Jokic once again set the standard. In 42 minutes, Jokic contributed 27 points, 13 rebounds, three assists, and two made threes on 31.8% shooting. Aaron Gordon stood out in support, putting up 15 points, 16 rebounds, six assists, and three made threes as the only player to shoot over 40.0% on the team. Once again they’ll look for more from the struggling Michael Porter Jr., who scored just three points in Game 4.

The Denver Nuggets struggled against the spread this season, posting a 44-4-2 ATS Record and ranking 19th in the NBA. They have a 48.4% cover percentage, a +3.0 margin of victory, and a +0.1 ATS +/- this season.

Regarding the Denver Nuggets injury report, (F) Hunter Tyson (Ankle) is ruled out for Tuesday, while (C) DaRon Holmes (Achilles) is out for the season.

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Oklahoma City Thunder Preview

After dropping Game 1, Oklahoma City regained home court advantage after stealing Game 4 in Denver. As they return home, they have an opportunity to take a commanding lead in the series. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been brilliant, but his supporting cast must step up to bring them victory.

The Thunder were part of a gritty matchup in Game 4, as both teams struggled to score efficiently on the night. They’re coming off a winning performance where they scored 92 points on 35.6% from the field and 24.4% from three-point range. Their dominance on the boards helped them overcome Denver, as the Thunder collected 55 rebounds on the night.

As expected, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way for the Thunder. He scored 25 points, six rebounds, and six assists on 42.1% shooting in Game 4. Beyond him, no Thunder player stood out in the scoring department, but they had four double-digit contributors to help support their offensive efforts. Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren controlled the glass, combining for 16 points and 27 rebounds on the night.

The Oklahoma City Thunder were the best in the league against the spread this season, posting a 56-31-4 ATS Record. They have a 64.4% cover percentage, a +12.7 margin of victory, and a +3.5 ATS +/- this season. The Thunder won outright in Game 4 (-278) but failed against the spread.

Regarding the Oklahoma City Thunder injury report, (G) Nikola Topic (Knee) is out for the season.

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How to Watch Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

• Teams: Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

• Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK

• Date: 9:30 PM, Tuesday, May 13, 2025

• TV:  TNT, truTV, Max