Shai Gilgeous-Alexander returned from a nine-game absence with a 36-point performance as the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Denver Nuggets 127-121 in overtime. The reigning NBA MVP had missed action since sustaining an abdominal strain on February 3, but showed no rust in his 34-minute return.

Gilgeous-Alexander opened the scoring with a layup but received an early technical foul for throwing the ball at Nikola Jokic after contact. The game grew heated when Luguentz Dort was ejected for a flagrant foul on Jokic, sparking a shoving match that resulted in technicals for Jokic and Jaylin Williams. Alex Caruso took over in overtime after Gilgeous-Alexander rested, scoring crucial baskets as the Thunder built a 5-point lead.

The victory marked Oklahoma City's sixth win in eight games and extended their two-game lead over the San Antonio Spurs atop the Western Conference. Gilgeous-Alexander's return provides a major boost for the Thunder's playoff positioning, with the team now firmly in control of the conference standings.