Physical Play Defines Game 1
This opener was anything but smooth. A total of 42 fouls were called, including a flagrant on Jaden McDaniels and a technical on Nuggets coach David Adelman.
Murray’s Perfect Night
Jamal Murray delivered a masterclass from the free‑throw line, sinking all 16 attempts en route to 30 points. His poise under pressure helped Denver recover from an early 12‑point deficit and seize control in the second half.
Nikola Jokic opened the playoff season with yet another tiple double, adding 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists. Even after taking a shot to the nose in the physical contest, Jokic steadied the Nuggets with a crucial five‑point stretch late in the fourth quarter.
Aaron Gordon battled foul trouble but still contributed 17 points, including a key dunk off Murray’s half‑court heave.
Timberwolves Keep Fighting
Anthony Edwards scored 22 points despite a sore knee, while Donte DiVincenzo knocked down four three‑pointers. Minnesota trimmed the deficit to just two points in the fourth quarter, but Denver’s late surge proved too much.
Rivalry Renewed
These Northwest Division foes remain evenly matched, with Denver holding a slim 15‑14 edge in head‑to‑head meetings since 2022. Both teams have eliminated each other in recent playoff series, adding fuel to this rivalry.
The Nuggets increase their edge over the Timberwolves with a 116-105 win in Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs.
Looking Ahead
Game 2 is set for Monday night in Denver. With the Nuggets riding a 13‑game winning streak, the Timberwolves must regroup quickly to avoid falling into a deeper hole in this first‑round clash.
