2 min read • May 05, 2025
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With all of the NBA First Round series completed, we are gearing up for some exciting second round matchups, and one Western Conference Semifinal should see two teams at their very best as they both have relatively healthy rosters, with minimal injury concerns.
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Memphis Grizzlies rather easily in a 4-0 sweep, with only one game being semi-competitive. The Thunder’s biggest injury concerns going into the series were Jalen Williams and Alex Caruso who missed multiple stretches throughout the season. Jalen Williams had some hip issues towards the end of the regular season, but played his regular rotation during Round 1 and showed no signs of an injury playing 34 minutes per game averaging 23/5/5 in the sweep. Alex Caruso, one of their key defensive pieces has had ankle issues throughout the season, but he also showed no signs of any lingering injury in Round 1. To look at his stats you might think different, but his impact has always been one that doesn’t necessarily show up on the stat sheet and he will be a very important piece of the Thunder’s plans to shut down Jamal Murray. Beyond that, the young Thunder are mostly healthy at a very critical time in the season.
The Denver Nuggets were involved in a very hard-fought 7-game series vs the Los Angeles Clippers, and came out of it mostly healthy. Two players worth keeping an eye on for Denver are Russell Westbrook and Michael Porter Jr. Westbrook comes off the bench for Denver, but missed Game 4 and was listed as Questionable for Game 5 with inflammation in his left foot. He played his regular rotation in Games 5-7 and didn’t exhibit any signs of an injury so while worth monitoring, he could be otherwise healthy. Michael Porter Jr has been dealing with a shoulder injury and didn’t miss any time in the first round, playing his regular rotation, however, it is worth noting that his production was cut significantly. Scoring 10.9pts per game as opposed the 18 he was scoring in the regular season. The Thunder are a good defensive team full of athletic wings and there’s a good chance Porter’s production will still see a dip from the regular season.
With both teams relatively healthy, it should be a competitive showdown. The Thunder’s youth, depth, and athleticism will be tested against the experience and championship pedigree of the Nuggets. The Nuggets won Game 1 despite the quick turnaround. Jokic led the way with 42 points.
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