NBA Playoff Reaction: WCF Set as Thunder Dominate Nuggets in Game 7 Blowout

The Oklahoma City Thunder have officially arrived. In a stunning Game 7 masterpiece, they dismantled the defending champion Denver Nuggets 117-90, punching their ticket to the Western Conference Finals—where a hungry Minnesota Timberwolves team awaits. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. The Thunder, the youngest No. 1 seed in NBA history, didn’t just survive a Game 7 on the road—they obliterated the Nuggets in their own building, leaving no doubt about who the better team was. So, how did they do it? And what does this mean for the upcoming Thunder vs. Timberwolves showdown? Let’s break it all down. Game 7 Domination: How the Thunder Shocked the Nuggets 1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Masterclass SGA didn’t just show up—he took over. The MVP finalist dropped 34 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, slicing through Denver’s defense with his signature mid-range magic and relentless drives. When the Nuggets tried to double-team him, he calmly found open teammates. When they played him straight up? Buckets. This was the kind of performance that cements superstardom. And the scary part? He’s just getting started. 2. Chet Holmgren’s Two-Way Brilliance The rookie big man was everywhere—blocking shots (3 in total), stretching the floor (2 threes), and even putting the ball on the floor for a couple of eye-popping drives. His versatility completely disrupted Denver’s offense, forcing Nikola Jokic into tough looks all night. If there were any doubts about Holmgren’s playoff readiness, they’re gone now. The kid is built for this stage. 3. Thunder’s Defense Was Relentless Oklahoma City held Denver to just 90 points—a shocking number for a Nuggets team that usually feasts at home. Their swarming perimeter defense forced Jamal Murray into a miserable 4-of-18 shooting night, while Jokic (34 points) got little help from his supporting cast. The Thunder’s length, athleticism, and discipline were on full display. If they defend like this against Minnesota, the Timberwolves are in for a long series. 4. Nuggets’ Supporting Cast Disappeared Outside of Jokic, Denver got nothing. Aaron Gordon? Invisible. Michael Porter Jr.? Ice-cold (3-of-12). The Nuggets’ depth, usually a strength, completely vanished when it mattered most. This loss raises big questions about Denver’s future. Is their championship window still open? Or was this the beginning of the end? Western Conference Finals Preview: Thunder vs. Timberwolves Now, the stage is set: Thunder vs. Timberwolves—a battle of the NBA’s brightest young cores. Key Matchups to Watch Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Anthony Edwards – Two rising superstars going head-to-head. Who takes over the series? Chet Holmgren vs. Rudy Gobert – The sleek, stretchy rookie vs. the defensive anchor. Can Chet pull Gobert out of the paint? Jalen Williams vs. Jaden McDaniels – A sneaky-good wing battle with lockdown defense on both sides. Who Has the Edge? Thunder Advantages: Speed, three-point shooting, depth. Timberwolves Advantages: Size, defense, playoff experience (slightly). This series could go seven games, but one thing’s for sure: the winner will be a serious title contender. Final Thoughts: A New Era in the West The Thunder’s Game 7 demolition wasn’t just a win—it was a changing of the guard. The old kings (Denver) have fallen, and the new blood (OKC, Minnesota) is here to take over. Can the Thunder keep rolling? Or will the Timberwolves’ physicality be too much? One thing’s certain: the Western Conference Finals are going to be must-watch basketball.