Game 4 between Denver and Minnesota ended with more than just a scoreline. Yankee Scores reports the aftermath of the altercation, a game that spilled over into fines, adding drama to a playoff series already packed with intensity.
The Incident
With 2.1 seconds left and Minnesota up by 14, Jaden McDaniels drove for an uncontested layup. Denver players took exception, one player in particular, sparking a confrontation. Nikola Jokic shoved McDaniels, and Julius Randle escalated matters by pushing Bruce Brown. Both were ejected after technical fouls.
Jaden McDaniels scores the layup instead of running out the clock, Nikola Jokic runs all the way from the other side of the court to face him, bumps him, as McDaniels grabs Jokic’s jersey, a kerfuffle ensues.
Nikola Jokic and Julius Randle get ejected from the game
I haven’t… pic.twitter.com/uxgjQdGAHp
— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) April 26, 2026
League Response
On Sunday, the NBA announced fines: $50,000 for Jokic and $35,000 for Randle. Both remain eligible to play in Game 5, but the penalties underline the league’s stance on late‑game confrontations.
Series Context
Minnesota leads the series 3‑1, though injuries loom large. Donte DiVincenzo is out for the season with a torn Achilles, and Anthony Edwards is sidelined indefinitely with a knee injury. Despite those setbacks, the Timberwolves continue to push the defending champions to the brink.
Emotional Fallout
Jokic explained his frustration, saying the play came after Denver had stopped competing. Coach Chris Finch admitted the moment was heated, while Minnesota players emphasized composure heading into the next game.
What’s Next
Game 5 tips off Monday in Denver. The Nuggets face elimination, while the Timberwolves look to close out the series despite missing two key guards. The spotlight now shifts from fines to survival.
