Jokic scored 27+15+3 despite shooting only 7-of-26, while Dosunmu contributed 25+9 as a surprise performer; Timberwolves defeat Nuggets to take 2-1 series lead.

On April 24, Beijing time, in the Western Conference first round of the NBA playoffs, the Timberwolves defeated the Nuggets 113-96, taking a 2-1 series lead. In this game, six Timberwolves players scored in double figures, with Dosunmu contributing 25 points, 3 rebounds, and 9 assists as a key surprise. Nuggets star Nikola Jokic managed 27 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 assists despite shooting only 7-of-26 from the field.

Statistical Breakdown

Nuggets: Jokic 27 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals; Murray 16 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists; Hardaway 11 points, 5 rebounds; Naji 10 points, 3 rebounds.

Timberwolves: Edwards 17 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists; Randle 15 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists; Gobert 10 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks; McDaniels 20 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists; DiVincenzo 15 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals; Dosunmu 25 points, 3 rebounds, 9 assists.

Game Progression

From the opening moments, the Nuggets clearly hadn't shaken off the shadow of their previous loss to the Timberwolves, struggling to match their opponent's pace on both offense and defense, allowing a 14-4 run. Although Jokic managed a difficult floater against Gobert in isolation, the Nuggets' overall offensive performance remained underwhelming. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves maintained their recent offensive form; despite poor outside shooting, their interior attacks consistently succeeded. By the end of the first quarter, the Nuggets had scored only 11 points and trailed by 14. In terms of interior scoring, the Nuggets were outscored 4-20 in the first quarter. Entering the second quarter, the Nuggets gradually regained their shooting touch, but the Timberwolves continued their relentless assault, firmly controlling the game's momentum. When DiVincenzo hit a semi-open three-pointer, the Timberwolves held a 23-point advantage. Subsequently, the Nuggets attempted to mount a new counterattack, but the Timberwolves, led by Randle, steadily and consistently added points. At halftime, the Timberwolves led 61-39, a 22-point margin.

After the break, the Timberwolves quickly found their rhythm and expanded their lead to nearly 30 points. The Nuggets then launched a counterattack, scoring through three-pointers, free throws, and fast breaks to produce a scoring surge. When Jokic powered through for a basket inside, the Nuggets cut the deficit to 17 points. The Timberwolves promptly responded with Hyland stepping up to hit consecutive three-pointers, helping them restore a 20+ point lead. Toward the end of the quarter, both teams added points via free throws and driving layups. By the end of the third quarter, the Timberwolves held a commanding 88-68 lead. In the fourth quarter, both teams traded offensive blows early on. Although Edwards faced foul trouble, Randle and McDaniels took turns scoring to keep the Timberwolves' advantage around 20 points. Jokic led the Nuggets' chase, but McDaniels responded with a combination of outside shooting and interior play, scoring 5 consecutive points to stabilize the Timberwolves' position. Due to the large gap and limited remaining time, the Nuggets substituted their starters. Ultimately, the Timberwolves defeated the Nuggets, taking a 2-1 series lead.

Starting Lineups

Nuggets: Jokic, Murray, Braun, Jones, Johnson.

Timberwolves: Edwards, Randle, Gobert, McDaniels, DiVincenzo.