Whatever momentum the Denver Nuggets appeared to have entering the second quarter disappeared late. The Thunder took a seven-point lead into halftime with them, 56-49.
The Thunder took a 41-38 lead on a James Harden three with six minutes left in the quarter. Eventually, Ty Lawson tied the game at 43 when he sank an 18-foot jumper with five minutes to go. But the Thunder went on a 13-6 run to end the half. Serge Ibaka played a huge role for the Thunder as he already has 12 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks. Just like in Game 2, the Thunder hold a rebounding edge over the Nuggets, 26-19.
Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook have scored 13 and 10 points, respectively, while Harden has 10 off the bench.
The Nuggets had some sloppy play during those final minutes, and have eight turnovers at halftime. Arron Afflalo has nine points, but all of them came in the first quarter. Kenyon Martin, Nene and Chris Andersen are tied for second in points with eight each. Nene leads with five rebounds.
Despite making a key shot in the first quarter, J.R. Smith (plus-6) has been on the bench, playing just six minutes.