The 2025 NBA Playoffs continued on Thursday with three exciting Game 3 matchups. The Oklahoma City Thunder made history with a dramatic comeback to take a commanding 3-0 lead in their series, while the New York Knicks reclaimed home-court advantage in a hard-fought win over the Detroit Pistons. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers cruised to a dominant victory over the Denver Nuggets.
Oklahoma City Thunder 114, Memphis Grizzlies 108: A Historic Comeback and Injury Concerns for Memphis
The Memphis Grizzlies were poised for a strong performance after taking a 29-point lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder, but disaster struck when star guard Ja Morant suffered a hip injury. With the Grizzlies up 67-40 midway through the second quarter, Morant was injured after a hard foul from Lu Dort and was later ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Before his departure, Morant had contributed 15 points and five assists, and Memphis seemed in control. However, the Thunder mounted an incredible comeback, outscoring the Grizzlies 36-18 in the third quarter to cut the lead significantly. Chet Holmgren played a pivotal role in the second half, scoring 23 of his 26 points after the break to help Oklahoma City complete the second-largest comeback in NBA playoff history.
With Morant sidelined, Memphis struggled to maintain their momentum, allowing the Thunder to take a 109-108 lead with just over a minute remaining. Oklahoma City held off the Grizzlies in the final stretch to seal a 114-108 victory, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way with 31 points, eight assists, and four rebounds.
Thunder’s Stunning Resilience
Although the Thunder’s comeback was aided by Morant’s injury, the team showed incredible resolve. Jalen Williams stepped up with 26 points, six rebounds, and five assists, while Holmgren’s second-half scoring burst helped the Thunder remain in the hunt. Despite Memphis’ early dominance, the Thunder’s refusal to quit resulted in an unforgettable playoff victory.
Game 4 is set for Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET in Memphis, with the Grizzlies hoping to avoid a sweep and relying on Morant’s status, which remains uncertain as he undergoes further testing.
New York Knicks 118, Detroit Pistons 116: Knicks Regain Home-Court Advantage Behind Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson
In Detroit, the New York Knicks battled back from a tough Game 2 loss to claim a 118-116 win over the Pistons, taking a 2-1 series lead. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way for New York, delivering a standout performance with 31 points and eight rebounds. Towns was instrumental in keeping the Knicks afloat after Detroit made a comeback push.
Towns Powers the Knicks Early
Towns was on fire from beyond the arc, knocking down three first-quarter 3-pointers and setting the tone for New York’s offense. After a quieter Game 2, Towns took charge early, scoring 17 points in the first half and setting up the Knicks for a crucial win.
Brunson Shines as Clutch Player
Jalen Brunson, named NBA Clutch Player of the Year, lived up to his title in the final moments of the game. Despite Detroit’s late-game rally, which brought the score within three points in the closing seconds, Brunson sealed the win for New York. He scored 12 points in the final period, hitting key shots and finishing with 30 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds.
The game ended in dramatic fashion as Brunson intentionally missed a free throw with just seconds remaining. After a bizarre sequence involving a clock error and a review, the Knicks held on for the victory. Game 4 will take place in Detroit on Sunday at 1 p.m.
Los Angeles Clippers 117, Denver Nuggets 83: Clippers Dominate to Take 2-1 Lead
The Los Angeles Clippers dominated Game 3 of their series with the Denver Nuggets, winning 117-83 in a commanding performance that gave them a 2-1 series lead. The Clippers, who had stolen home-court advantage with a Game 2 win in Denver, never let up on Thursday.
Clippers’ Balanced Attack
While Kawhi Leonard had a solid 21 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, it was James Harden’s explosive 20-point first half that powered Los Angeles to a big lead. Norman Powell also added 20 points, with 12 of those coming in the third quarter. The Clippers’ depth and ability to distribute the scoring load were crucial in this blowout win.
Nuggets Struggle with Turnovers and Shooting
Denver was plagued by turnovers and inefficient shooting, allowing the Clippers to extend their lead to as much as 25 points. Nikola Jokić continued his strong play with a triple-double (23 points, 13 rebounds, and 13 assists), but he received little support from his teammates. Michael Porter Jr. and Christian Braun combined for just 16 points, and the Nuggets’ bench provided only six points.
Denver will need to address their turnovers (16 total) and shooting struggles (40.3% from the field) ahead of Game 4 on Saturday.
Looking Ahead to the Next Games
With Game 4s scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, the 2025 NBA Playoffs continue to deliver drama and excitement. Will the Grizzlies bounce back from their injury woes and stave off a sweep? Can the Knicks build on their clutch performance and put Detroit away? And will the Nuggets find their rhythm before it’s too late? Stay tuned for more thrilling playoff action.
