Denver NuggetsOpen full analysis
Minnesota TimberwolvesOpen full analysis
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Denver Nuggets 110–98 on April 30 at Target Center, a defensive battle that fell well short of the Vegas total of 223.5 points. J. McDaniels led Minnesota with 32 points, supported by T. Shannon Jr.'s 24 points as the Timberwolves shot 45.7 percent from the field and made 7 three-pointers while committing just 7 turnovers. Denver's N. Jokić and C. Johnson combined for 55 points and made 10 threes, but the Nuggets struggled with efficiency in the second quarter, scoring only 20 points and managing just 13 turnovers against Minnesota's stifling defense. The Timberwolves' defensive rating of 105.4 proved decisive, holding Denver to 45.3 percent shooting and forcing turnovers while controlling the glass with a 50–33 rebound advantage. Minnesota's balanced offensive approach—26 assists and 8 steals—suffocated Denver's rhythm throughout, particularly after the first quarter when the Nuggets scored 30 but managed just 68 over the final three periods. This playoff victory positions Minnesota as a serious threat in the Western Conference bracket.
