Thunder Seek Statement Win Over Jokic, Nuggets

OKC looks to bounce back from blowout loss as Denver star returns from injury.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 2:55pm

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The Oklahoma City Thunder will face the Denver Nuggets for the first time since last season's playoffs, with the reigning NBA champion Thunder looking to rebound from a blowout loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Nuggets will have star center Nikola Jokic back in the lineup after he missed 16 straight games due to a knee injury.

Why it matters

This matchup between two Western Conference contenders will be an early test for the Thunder as they aim to defend their title. The Nuggets, led by the returning Jokic, will provide a tough challenge as OKC tries to get back on track after a poor performance against the Timberwolves.

The details

The Thunder (38-11) are still missing key players like Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell and Alex Caruso due to injuries. The Nuggets (33-16) are expected to have Jokic back in the lineup after he missed over a month with a hyperextended left knee. OKC will look to its defense to try and slow down Jokic, while the Nuggets will need to find a way to contain Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

  • The Thunder last played on Thursday, suffering a 123-111 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
  • The Nuggets secured a 122-109 home win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The star center for the Denver Nuggets who missed the last 16 games due to a hyperextended left knee injury.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The leading scorer for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who will need to have a big game to help his team bounce back from their recent loss.

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What they’re saying

“OKC didn't play its usual brand of basketball during a blowout loss to Minnesota on Thursday. It gave up far too many second-chance opportunities, failed to set the tone early on with its defense and struggled with shot creation outside of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.”

— Justin Martinez, Columnist (The Oklahoman)

“While OKC is equipped to at least make life difficult for Nikola Jokic, Denver could struggle to contain Gilgeous-Alexander since Cameron Johnson is out and Christian Braun is doubtful.”

— Justin Martinez, Columnist (The Oklahoman)

What’s next

The Thunder will look to bounce back and make a statement against the Nuggets, who will be trying to prove they can still compete with the defending champions despite Jokic's recent injury.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Thunder and Nuggets will be an early-season clash between two of the West's top teams. OKC will need to shore up its defense and get more production outside of Gilgeous-Alexander to take down the Nuggets, who are hoping Jokic's return can help them regain their form.