Context:

In the NBA playoffs, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets are set to face off in a highly anticipated series featuring MVP candidates Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. The Thunder, having swept the Grizzlies, have had over a week of rest, while the Nuggets come off a decisive Game 7 win against the Clippers, with only a short break before traveling to Oklahoma City. Despite their recent victory, the Nuggets might face fatigue, although their momentum could counterbalance the Thunder's potential rust. Game 1 will air on TNT and truTV, with live streaming available on Sling, offering fans various viewing options without traditional cable. This series promises to be intense, as both teams split their regular season matchups evenly, indicating a competitive playoff battle ahead.

Dive Deeper:

• The Thunder and Nuggets series is a battle between MVP candidates Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic, in the second round of the NBA playoffs. This matchup is especially intriguing as it brings together two teams with contrasting recent experiences; the Thunder have had an extended rest while the Nuggets are fresh off a high-pressure Game 7 victory.

• The Thunder, who dominated their regular season with 68 wins, have the advantage of rest after sweeping the Grizzlies, whereas the Nuggets had to quickly regroup after a demanding series against the Clippers. The quick turnaround might be seen as a disadvantage for Denver, yet their strong finish might give them an edge in momentum.

• Game 1 is scheduled to tip off at 9:30 p.m. ET from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, with live broadcasts available on TNT and truTV, providing multiple platforms for fans to engage with the game. Sling TV will also offer live streaming options, highlighting its flexibility and affordability for sports enthusiasts.

• During the regular season, the Thunder and Nuggets had an even matchup, with each team winning two games. This suggests a closely contested playoff series, as both teams have shown they can compete effectively against each other.

• Fans interested in listening to the game can tune in via SiriusXM, which offers a variety of sports channels and is available for free to new subscribers for the first four months. This service enhances fans' access to live sports content, including NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL games, ensuring comprehensive coverage and analysis.

• Sling TV stands out as a versatile streaming service, offering users the ability to customize their viewing experience with no-contract packages and a range of channels. This service is particularly appealing to those looking to avoid traditional cable subscriptions while still enjoying a broad selection of sports, news, and entertainment.

• The NBA playoffs schedule is set with key dates, including the start of the first round on April 19 and potential Game 7 of the NBA Finals on June 22. These dates provide a roadmap for fans to follow their favorite teams throughout the postseason, with some flexibility depending on the progress of preceding series.

• It's a battle of the MVP candidates on Monday night. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic will play a best-of-seven series in the second round of the NBA playoffs.

• The Thunder have been off for more than a week after sweeping the Grizzlies, while the Nuggets just recently defeated the Clippers in Game 7.

• WATCH:Thunder vs. Nuggets Game 1 LIVE on Sling