Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to a decisive 112-97 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, edging closer to the Western Conference finals.
Jokic, fresh from receiving his third NBA MVP award, delivered a 40-point performance. He also dished out 13 assists and grabbed seven rebounds without a single turnover.
Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray contributed significantly to Jokic’s stellar effort. Gordon recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Murray added 16.
The Timberwolves struggled to counter Denver’s offense. Anthony Edwards faced tough defence, managing only 18 points on 5-of-15 shooting. Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert scored 23 and 18 points, respectively, but it wasn’t enough.
This loss marked the Timberwolves’ first three-game losing streak, putting them on the verge of elimination. They now face a must-win Game 6 at the Target Center to force a Game 7 in Denver.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver further highlighted Jokic’s performance during halftime when he presented him with the MVP trophy. Jokic set the game’s pace with 19 points in the first half and extended Denver’s lead with 16 points in the third quarter. His late-game three-pointer over Gobert sealed the victory.
The Timberwolves felt the absence of veteran point guard Mike Conley, out with a sore right Achilles. Nickeil Alexander-Walker stepped in, contributing 14 points and five assists.
As the Nuggets aim for the Western Conference finals, Jokic’s dominant performance underscores his critical role and influence in pivotal games.
