Julian Strawther

16-point second-half comebacks against the NBA’s No. 1 regular-season team often requires execution, energy, and an “unsung hero” or two. During a frenetic charge that helped deal the Oklahoma City Thunder its first loss on November 6, 2024, the Denver Nuggets enjoyed the comforts of seeing Julian Strawther check all three boxes. Akin to a beloved wrestler racing down the ramp to even the playing field of an unfair in-ring showdown, Strawther strides the floor purposefully, turning the Nuggets’ two-on-three transition tango into something more balanced. The great equalizer by possession’s end, Strawther reaps the ultimate reward, following his teammate’s misfired layup with a powerful putback return, encouraging both a six-point lead and the fiery support of 19,522 in attendance. Ironically off-target from deep during a night in which 3-point accuracy spurred Denver’s come-from-behind triumph, the gifted sophomore's versatile energy offset any shortcomings, as evidenced through a nine-point, five-rebound, six-assist, one-triple showing.