In Game 1 of the second-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault faced critical decisions leading to a stunning defeat. Despite a commanding lead of 11 points with 4:31 left, the Thunder faltered under pressure, allowing the Nuggets to rally back. The decision of whether to foul while leading by three points in the final seconds became pivotal, as Daigneault chose to play defense, resulting in a narrow loss after the Nuggets executed a significant comeback. This game reflects the ongoing debate in basketball strategy regarding fouling to protect a lead.
"Daigneault cannot be spared the hot light of scrutiny after he and the Thunder fumbled away Game 1 of their second-round series against the Denver Nuggets."
"The Thunder were up 11 with 4:31 left to play, and seemed ready to put away a game that they had led and dominated all night."
"Should you foul while up three at the end of the game? This question is routinely debated inside and outside the NBA."
"A shocking 12-2 Nuggets run made it 115-114 with 1:07 to play, which is about when the bad decisions started being made."
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