Aaron Gordon's dunk in Game 4 of the playoffs has solidified his position as a Denver Nuggets legend. This season, he has made 575 regular-season dunks and 96 in the playoffs, with 19% of his field goal attempts coming from these electrifying plays, many assisted by Nikola Jokic. Despite a lingering calf injury that caused him to miss 31 games this season, Gordon has stepped up his game, averaging 18.9 points in the series against the Clippers, showcasing his value.

His buzzer-beater in Game 4 and his overall contributions have made him a candidate for the series MVP while also raising expectations for his performance in the challenging second round against the Oklahoma City Thunder. With minimal rest between games, Gordon's durability will be tested as the Nuggets face a daunting opponent.

Anthony Edwards has quickly made a name for himself in the NBA, earning the title 'The King Slayer' after leading the Minnesota Timberwolves past superstar teams including the Los Angeles Lakers and a roster featuring Kevin Durant and Nikola Jokic in the 2024 playoffs. His resilience under pressure has cemented his status as a rising star in the league, with Adidas highlighting his impact as their prime basketball ambassador.

With the Timberwolves gearing up for another challenge against the Golden State Warriors, Edwards has the opportunity to defeat even more legends like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. This underdog mentality has become a hallmark of the Timberwolves, who thrive when faced with adversity. Coach Chris Finch's leadership has been pivotal in cultivating this competitive spirit, ensuring that the team remains formidable even against the odds.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Oklahoma City Thunder into the second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs, facing off against Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets. After sweeping the Memphis Grizzlies, the Thunder are seen as strong title favorites at +135 odds. The Nuggets, having just concluded a grueling Game 7 against the Clippers, will look to capitalize on their momentum despite potential fatigue.

The Thunder's extended break may raise questions about their preparedness, but their depth and recent performance position them as the smarter pick against a Nuggets team that has struggled against them throughout the season. The matchup promises to be competitive, with the Thunder favored by 9.5 points at Bet365, but it may be a close affair given the circumstances.

The Denver Nuggets showcased their dominance in a Game 7 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, winning 120-101 and advancing to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round of the playoffs. The Nuggets' centerpiece, Nikola Jokić, continues to impress, having averaged a triple-double in the series with 24 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 10.1 assists. This remarkable consistency positions him as a significant contender for this season's MVP, although Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder is viewed as a strong favorite for the award.

As the Nuggets prepare for their matchup against the Thunder, who boasted the NBA's best defense during the regular season, Jokić's all-around game will be closely scrutinized. With a history of success, including three MVP titles and a championship, Jokić's ability to deliver under pressure will be crucial. This series is shaping up to be a thrilling showdown between two of the league's elite players, as both Jokić and Gilgeous-Alexander seek to lead their teams to victory.

The Golden State Warriors triumphed over the Houston Rockets in a thrilling Game 7, setting the stage for an exciting series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This victory highlighted the Warriors' resilience and strategic depth, making them formidable contenders in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers faced disappointment as James Harden struggled in their Game 7 loss to the Denver Nuggets, with concerns arising about his performance and future in crucial games.

As the playoffs progress, fans eagerly anticipate the matchup between Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, two of the league's brightest stars, in the second round. Their performance will be pivotal for both teams as they aim for success in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons' season ended on a somber note following their defeat at the hands of the New York Knicks, leading to speculation about the team's future direction and strategies.