In a thrilling Game 1 of the second-round series, the Oklahoma City Thunder hosted the Denver Nuggets, showcasing a remarkable performance by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the Thunder to a 10-point halftime lead. Despite a comeback effort by the Nuggets, anchored by Nikola Jokic's impressive stats of 31 points, 20 rebounds, and six assists, the Thunder managed to pull ahead once again. Alex Caruso emerged as a key player off the bench, scoring 20 points, with five assists, five steals, and two blocks in just 20 minutes.

Caruso made history by becoming the first player to record two or more blocks, three or more steals, and hit five or more three-pointers in an NBA playoff game. His stellar performance prompted Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault to start him in the second half, replacing Isaiah Hartenstein. The Thunder's depth was evident this season, but Caruso's strong showing in Game 1 could be a turning point for the franchise.