The 2025 NBA Playoffs are heating up, and on 16 May, all eyes turn to Ball Arena as the Denver Nuggets host the surging Oklahoma City Thunder in what promises to be a high-stakes, high-octane battle in the Western Conference. With a trip to the Conference Finals hanging in the balance, fans and bettors alike are in for a treat as two of the league’s most dynamic squads go head-to-head.

Let’s break down what to expect from this epic clash – including team form, key matchups, betting tips, and expert predictions.

The Nuggets may be the reigning champions, but they haven’t had it easy this postseason. After a tough first-round test, Denver has regrouped, riding on the brilliance of Nikola Jokić, who continues to redefine the role of a modern big man. The Joker is averaging a near triple-double in the playoffs, showcasing his court vision, footwork, and unflappable demeanor under pressure.

Jamal Murray has been clutch, as usual, stepping up in the fourth quarters with dagger threes and smart playmaking. Meanwhile, Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon are providing consistent support on both ends of the floor. With home-court advantage and playoff experience on their side, Denver will look to control the tempo early.

• W vs MIN – 111-98

• W vs MIN – 105-99

• L @ MIN – 102-116

• W vs PHX – 112-94

• L @ PHX – 97-101

The Thunder aren’t supposed to be here this early in their rebuild – but someone forgot to tell Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The All-NBA guard has been nothing short of electric, slicing through defenses and getting to the line at will. SGA’s combination of poise, creativity, and explosiveness is a nightmare for any opponent.

Chet Holmgren has emerged as a defensive anchor, using his length to disrupt shots and force turnovers. Add in Jalen Williams, Josh Giddey, and a fearless second unit, and you’ve got one of the league’s most exciting young cores. OKC’s pace, spacing, and unselfish play have made them a legitimate threat to the Western Conference throne.

• W vs LAC – 119-102

• L @ LAC – 101-108

• W vs LAC – 109-95

• W vs DEN – 113-108

• W vs DEN – 106-104

The Nuggets and Thunder have split their regular season series 2-2, but OKC drew first blood in this playoff series with back-to-back narrow victories. That said, Denver has bounced back in Game 3, and the home crowd in Game 4 will be roaring.

Over their last 10 meetings, Denver holds a slight edge (6-4), but OKC’s youth and defensive versatility have closed the gap significantly. The matchup is evenly poised, with contrasting styles that make for a fascinating tactical battle.

A generational offensive center versus a shot-blocking unicorn. Can Holmgren handle Jokić’s physicality in the post and playmaking from the high elbow?

SGA’s iso-heavy attack versus Murray’s scoring spurts and playoff savvy. This duel could determine which backcourt sets the pace.

Watch out for players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (DEN) and Isaiah Joe (OKC) to swing momentum with timely threes. Bench depth could be the deciding factor.

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Expect a fierce, down-to-the-wire contest. Denver’s playoff poise, altitude advantage, and Jokić’s brilliance might just tip the scales in their favor for Game 4. But the Thunder won’t go quietly – this young core is ahead of schedule and full of belief.

It's a battle of playoff pedigree versus fearless youth and the winner takes a giant leap toward the Western Conference crown.