Nikola Jokic's remarkable performance led the Denver Nuggets to a stunning comeback victory against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the second round of the NBA playoffs. Overcoming a 20-point deficit, the Nuggets triumphed 121-119, with Jokic contributing 42 points along with 22 rebounds and six assists. However, his aggressive play was marred by controversy, as he received a Flagrant 1 foul for an elbow to Lu Dort's head, sparking backlash from fans who accused him of being a dirty player.

Despite the negative attention from social media, Jokic remains a pivotal force for the Nuggets as they prepare for Game 2. The win not only boosts Denver's playoff aspirations but also intensifies discussions about Jokic's on-court behavior. Critics scrutinize how his physical style affects his legacy, especially given the heightened tensions in playoff basketball.

The NBA playoffs have taken a chaotic turn, with notable upsets shaking the landscape. The Houston Rockets, despite being the second seed, suffered an early exit in the first round. Meanwhile, both the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, who hold the top seeds in the Eastern Conference, dropped their first games of the semifinals against the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks, respectively. In a thrilling Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, the Denver Nuggets toppled the Oklahoma City Thunder, 121-119, thanks to a stellar performance from Nikola Jokic, who posted an impressive 42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists. Aaron Gordon clinched the victory with a game-winning three-pointer. Game 2 is set to take place in Oklahoma City on Wednesday.

In a thrilling Game 1 of the NBA playoffs, the Oklahoma City Thunder narrowly fell to the Denver Nuggets, 121-119, as Aaron Gordon's late-game heroics proved decisive. Despite holding a lead throughout much of the second half, a series of mistakes allowed the Nuggets to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Gordon, who scored 22 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, delivered the game-winning three-pointer, showcasing his clutch performance. Russell Westbrook added 18 points off the bench, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander nearly recorded a triple-double with 33 points, although the Thunder's effort ultimately fell short. Nikola Jokic dominated for the Nuggets with an impressive 42 points and 22 rebounds, further solidifying his MVP credentials. The Thunder's loss sets them back in the series, now facing a 0-1 deficit.

The Oklahoma City Thunder faced a disappointing 121-119 defeat against the Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of their playoff series. Despite leading for a significant portion of the second half, the Thunder couldn't seal the deal, ultimately losing to a clutch three-pointer from Aaron Gordon, assisted by Russell Westbrook. Chet Holmgren's missed free throws in the closing moments proved costly, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander nearly achieved a triple-double with 33 points, highlighting the game. Alex Caruso's bench performance added 20 points and five steals, but the Thunder’s other starters struggled, particularly Jalen Williams, who shot just 5-of-20 from the field. Nikola Jokic dominated for Denver with a massive 42-point, 22-rebound performance, supported by Gordon's 22 points and 14 rebounds. The series now sees OKC in an early 0-1 hole.

The Oklahoma City Thunder faced a shocking 121-119 loss against the Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of their playoff series, succumbing to a late collapse despite holding a substantial lead. Chet Holmgren’s missed free throws in the final seconds proved costly, allowing Aaron Gordon to sink a game-winning three-pointer. The Thunder began strong, leading 60-50 at halftime, but a lack of defensive consistency and communication led to their downfall.

Nikola Jokic's dominant performance, with 42 points and 22 rebounds, fueled the Nuggets’ comeback. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a standout game with 33 points, but the Thunder's inability to maintain their lead highlighted critical mistakes. As fans left in disbelief, questions loomed over the Thunder's strategy, emphasizing the urgent need to regroup before Game 2.