Nuggets vs Thunder Preview: Feb 27, 2026

The Nuggets head to Oklahoma City on Friday night for a huge Western Conference showdown. Denver sits at fourth place while the defending champion Thunder lead the conference. Both teams face big injury questions heading into tip-off.

Thunder Flying High at Home

Oklahoma City can’t be stopped. The Thunder are playing their best basketball at the perfect time. They own a 24-6 record at home this season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the attack with about 33 points per game. He slices through defenses like a hot knife through butter. His quick first step leaves defenders grasping at air.

Big man Chet Holmgren controls the paint on both ends. The seven-footer scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Orlando. He blocks shots at the rim and drains three-pointers from the outside.

But the Thunder face major injury concerns. Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams are both listed as out, though they could return Friday. Alex Caruso is questionable with an ankle issue.

Jokic Leads Injured Nuggets

Denver lost two straight games. Nikola Jokic remains unstoppable with about 29 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists per game. The three-time MVP sees the floor like a chess master. Every pass finds the perfect target.

Jamal Murray is questionable after leaving Wednesday's game early. Aaron Gordon is also listed as out but might return Friday. The Nuggets need their stars healthy to compete with the West's best teams.