Nuggets vs Thunder Game 2 Player Prop Picks (May 7)

• The Denver Nuggets escaped with a 121-119 win in Game 1, thanks to Aaron Gordon’s game-winning three with 2.8 seconds left.
• Nikola Jokic delivered a monster stat line with 42 points and 22 rebounds, while the Thunder leaned on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35-point effort to stay close throughout.
• With Game 2 tipping off in Oklahoma City, both teams are expected to make adjustments, and the prop market reflects key opportunities to exploit those changes.

Game 1 was a thriller, with both stars putting on a show. Jokic dominated inside and on the glass, while the Thunder struggled to defend the post without fouling. Expect Mark Daigneault to send more help at Jokic in Game 2, which opens the door for Denver’s passing game. Meanwhile, the Thunder will again look to Gilgeous-Alexander for perimeter creation, and the role players’ production could be the difference in this one. Let’s break down two-player props that stand out heading into Game 2.

Denver Nuggets Player Prop Pick-Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic’s scoring drew all the headlines in Game 1, but his assist total (just 5) was well below his postseason average. That looks like a temporary dip. The Thunder threw aggressive single coverage at him, daring him to score—which he did with 42 points.

But with a day to adjust, Oklahoma City is likely to double more aggressively and force the ball out of his hands. Jokic averaged 9.0 assists during the regular season and went over this line in four of five games in the first round. Expect more backdoor cuts and open looks for Denver’s wings as Jokic returns to a facilitator role in Game 2.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Prop Pick-Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

SGA isn’t known as a high-volume three-point shooter, but he’s quietly ramped up his attempts in the playoffs, hitting at least two triples in four of his last six games.

In Game 1, he went 2-for-4 from deep, taking what the defense gave him as Denver sagged off to protect the lane. As Denver’s defense collapses on his midrange and drive game, he’ll continue to find room beyond the arc. This line is low given his postseason usage and the need for big-time shot-making in a close series.