The Minnesota Timberwolves took control of their first-round series with a 113-96 win over the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, April 23, at Target Center.
Minnesota now leads the Western Conference matchup 2-1 after delivering a defensive performance that dictated the game from the opening possession.
The Timberwolves set the tone early by allowing just 11 points in the first quarter, a franchise playoff record, and built a 61-39 halftime lead through consistent stops and transition offense.
Jaden McDaniels led the effort with 20 points and 10 rebounds, providing two-way production while attacking mismatches on the perimeter.
Ayo Dosunmu shifted the game off the bench with 25 points and nine assists, shooting 10-for-15 and repeatedly breaking down Denver’s defense off the dribble.
Donte DiVincenzo added 15 points, four steals and seven assists, contributing to Minnesota’s pressure defense that forced 10 turnovers and disrupted Denver’s rhythm.
Rudy Gobert anchored the interior again, holding Nikola Jokic to 7-for-26 shooting while recording 10 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks.
Jokic still finished with 27 points and 15 rebounds, but most of his production came after the deficit had already grown.
Jamal Murray added 16 points on 5-for-17 shooting, and Denver’s perimeter struggles continued as the team went 8-for-32 from three-point range.
Through three games, the Nuggets are shooting just 30% from deep, a significant drop from their regular-season efficiency.
Minnesota capitalized by attacking closeouts and generating paint touches, finishing with 44 field goals on 92 attempts and 31 assists.
Anthony Edwards contributed 17 points and five rebounds, while Julius Randle added 15 points and six boards to support the balanced offense.
The Timberwolves also controlled the glass, outrebounding Denver 53-40 and limiting second-chance opportunities.
McDaniels’ aggressive approach stood out after his post-Game 2 comments about Denver’s defense, as he consistently attacked the rim and created scoring chances.
Denver played without Aaron Gordon due to a calf injury, and his absence impacted both defensive versatility and transition play.
The Nuggets struggled to match Minnesota’s physicality and pace, particularly in the first half where the game was effectively decided.
Game 4 will remain in Minneapolis, where the Timberwolves will look to extend their advantage and push the defending champions to the brink.
