The Athletic NBA Daily Best game of the season: Thunder vs. Nuggets
5 snips
Mar 10, 2026 A breakdown of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s late-game heroics and whether it seals his MVP case. Tense play-by-play of the Thunder’s clutch win and the Nuggets’ chaotic comeback. Debate over foul-drawing and officiating reactions. Spotlight on Jalen Williams, bench contributions, and how injuries shape OKC’s title hopes. Big-picture look at Western Conference threats and matchup implications.
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Shai's Two Stepbacks Won The Game
- Andrew Schlecht recounts Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hitting two late step-back threes to seal a 129-126 win over Denver.
- He describes the sequence: Jokic hits a three, Jamal Murray makes a clutch free throw, then Shai drains two step-backs including the final shot with seconds left.
OKC Depth Shone Without Key Starters
- The Thunder beat Denver without Isaiah Hartenstein, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, or Alex Caruso, underscoring OKC depth.
- Andrew notes that winning a full-strength Nuggets team while missing key pillars proves OKC can top the West even when shorthanded.
Shai's Poker Face Is Part Of Modern Scoring
- Discussion of criticism about Shai's use of the off-arm and 'selling' fouls places him among all-time greats who use similar techniques.
- Dave DuFour and Andrew compare it to LeBron, Jason Tatum, and Kawhi, saying it's part of modern scoring craft, not unique theatrics.