Nikola Jokic struggles again as Thunder tie series with Nuggets

Nikola Jokic scored 27 points but shot only 7-of-22 from the field and missed two key free throws late in the fourth quarter. It marked the worst three-game shooting slump of his career. Denver couldn’t hold their late lead.

Jokic has gone 21-of-63 over the last three games, and Oklahoma City’s physical defense — especially from Isaiah Hartenstein — has been key. Hartenstein held Jokic to 3-of-10 when matched up. “We’re just staying disciplined,” the center said.

Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came up clutch, scoring 25 points and sealing the win with key buckets in the final minutes. Game 5 shifts to Oklahoma City on Tuesday, with momentum on the Thunder’s side.

6’5″ Alex Caruso is guarding 6’11” Nikola Jokic 😤

📺 OKC-Nuggets | ABC pic.twitter.com/78kr9592Me

— ESPN (@espn) May 11, 2025

Nikola Jokic over his last 3 games:

21.3 PPG
5.3 TOV
33.3% FG
18.2% 3PT
43.8% TS pic.twitter.com/TXnI21Yz6B

— Real Sports (@realapp_) May 11, 2025