The 2025 NBA playoffs have concluded their first round, setting the stage for an exhilarating conference semifinal stage. The Denver Nuggets are gearing up to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in an anticipated Game 1 matchup featuring two MVP frontrunners: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. The Thunder are favored by 9.5 points with an over/under of 225.5, suggesting a high-scoring affair is on the horizon.

Expert Jimmie Kaylor has made five bold picks for the matchup, highlighting Denver’s championship experience and projecting them to keep the game close. He anticipates Michael Porter Jr. to score over 13 points, benefiting from a favorable matchup. Similarly, Jalen Williams of Oklahoma City is projected to surpass 18 points, while Jokic is expected to record a triple-double, continuing his impressive postseason form. The synergy between offensive prowess and playoff intensity promises fans an electric Game 1.