A Determined Comeback

Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves have successfully re-entered the conversation in their opening-round playoff series. Despite facing a daunting 19-point deficit early in the game at Ball Arena, the Timberwolves mounted an impressive comeback, ultimately securing a 119-114 victory over the Denver Nuggets. This win levels the series, which has proven to be the most tightly contested matchup of the postseason so far, as the action shifts to Minneapolis for the upcoming games.


This result is significant for the Minnesota franchise, which has struggled historically to overcome a 2-0 series deficit. By evening the score, the team has kept its hopes alive for advancing to the next round.


«It’s 1-1, there’s no driver’s seat. We’re going home. We’ve got an advantage at home. Hopefully our fans rattle them a little bit when they come to our crib. We’ll be ready,» said Anthony Edwards following the game.

Overcoming the Nuggets' Hot Start

The Nuggets dominated the opening period, surging to a 44-25 lead and seemingly overwhelming Minnesota on both ends of the floor. However, the momentum shifted as the Timberwolves began to chip away at the deficit. By halftime, the score was deadlocked at 64-64, thanks to a remarkable long-range shot by Jamal Murray at the buzzer.


Nikola Jokić, after a quiet start, erupted in the third quarter, scoring 16 points to keep Denver competitive. Nevertheless, the Timberwolves maintained their composure and resilience.


The Pivotal Fourth Quarter

Minnesota reclaimed the lead late in the final period, fueled by a dunk from Jaden McDaniels and a fast-break layup by Donte DiVincenzo. These plays were made possible by defensive stops against Jokić in the paint. The Nuggets struggled significantly during a crucial stretch, managing only one field goal in nearly five minutes. Although Aaron Gordon hit a late three-pointer and Jokić managed a powerful dunk over Rudy Gobert to keep things close, Denver could not overcome the late-game surge.


In the final moments, Jamal Murray missed a potential game-tying shot, allowing DiVincenzo to seal the victory with an uncontested dunk.


Statistical Leaders

  • Denver Nuggets: Jamal Murray recorded 30 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Nikola Jokić contributed 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists. Notably, the pair struggled to find their rhythm in the final 12 minutes, shooting a combined 2-of-12.
  • Minnesota Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards led the effort with a double-double, tallying 30 points and 10 rebounds. Julius Randle chipped in 24 points and 9 rebounds, and Donte DiVincenzo added 16 points.

With the series now tied, the focus shifts to the Target Center for Thursday night, where the competitive battle between these two teams is expected to continue.