Nuggets Bench Outlasts Thunder Reserves in 11th Straight Win

Denver's second unit led by Valanciunas and Strawther power victory over Oklahoma City.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:24am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the action on the court, conveying the energy and teamwork of the Nuggets' reserve players outperforming their Thunder counterparts.The Nuggets' bench mob outpaces the Thunder's reserves, showcasing Denver's depth and team-wide contributions in their 11th straight victory.Denver Today

The Denver Nuggets extended their winning streak to 11 games with a 127-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night, led by strong performances from their reserve players. Center Jonas Valanciunas recorded season-highs of 23 points and 17 rebounds, while forward Julian Strawther added 22 points off the bench to power the Nuggets' second unit to the win.

Why it matters

The Nuggets have been one of the NBA's hottest teams, climbing up the Western Conference standings with this extended winning streak. Their ability to get production from their bench players has been a key factor in their success, as they've been able to maintain their high level of play even when resting their starters.

The details

In a matchup that featured the reserves of both teams, the Nuggets' bench proved to be the difference-maker. Valanciunas dominated the interior, while Strawther provided a scoring punch on the wing. The Nuggets' second unit outscored the Thunder's reserves 69-47, allowing Denver to pull away in the second half.

  • The game took place on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Nuggets' winning streak now stands at 11 games.

The players

Jonas Valanciunas

The Nuggets' starting center, who recorded season-highs of 23 points and 17 rebounds in the win.

Julian Strawther

A Nuggets reserve forward who scored 22 points off the bench to help power the team's second unit.

Denver Nuggets

The NBA team that extended its winning streak to 11 games with the victory over the Thunder.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Nuggets' opponent, whose reserve players were outmatched by Denver's second unit.

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What they’re saying

“Our bench players really stepped up tonight and made a huge difference. That's been a big part of our success during this winning streak.”

— Michael Malone, Nuggets Head Coach

What’s next

The Nuggets will look to extend their winning streak to 12 games when they host the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, April 13th.

The takeaway

The Nuggets' depth and ability to get production from their bench players has been a key factor in their rise up the Western Conference standings. Their reserves' performance in this game against the Thunder showcased why Denver has been one of the NBA's most formidable teams during their current hot streak.