Even though both sides had to play the second match in two days (back-to-back), both the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves still brought fire, enthusiasm and most importantly, the desire to win.
The team that defeats their opponent today will climb to No. 1 on the Western rankings when the Regular Season is only a few days away from ending.
The two sides struggled in the first two rounds with neither team leading by more than 6 points. The uniformity of the two top football teams in the West was also displayed with many individuals speaking out together, with no one truly outstanding.
By the third quarter, star power gradually appeared with Anthony Edwards exploding for the Minnesota Timberwolves, scoring 15 of the “wolves’ total 28 points”. On the other side of the field, Nikola Jokic also scored 15 points in the half to lead the team. host Denver.
However, there is a difference between these two individuals: Nikola Jokic maintained his hot hands into the fourth round, while Anthony Edwards “turned off the power” completely.
What was obtained in the third round were also the last points that Edwards scored in the match. On the contrary, Nikola Jokic contributed 13 more points in the final half to help his teammates go from an equal score to a 16-point lead.
This 22-7 run in the fourth quarter was like a knock-out blow for the Denver Nuggets, leading them to a final 116-107 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves to climb to the top position in the West.
Highlights Nikola Jokic’s 41 points against Rudy Gobert and the Minnesota Timberwolves
Nikola Jokic took another step in the race for the MVP title with an outstanding performance. He scored 41 points with 11 rebounds , 7 assists and 3 steals.
Even more impressive is that “The Joker” had an extremely effective match with 16-20 FG (2-2 3PT) despite having to face Rudy Gobert, owner of 3 Best Defensive Player titles in the tournament. (2018, 2019, 2021).
As for the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards led the team with 25 points and 4 assists. Mike Conley had 19 points (7-12 FG) along with 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal.
Look back at the highlights of the match Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves
The top-3 situation in the West is still extremely unpredictable when Oklahoma City Thunder won 127-89 today to maintain their pursuit. OKC currently has a 55-25 record tied with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The Denver Nuggets are temporarily at the top of the table with a total record of 56-24. All three teams have 2 more matches to close the Regular Season, taking the field simultaneously on Saturday (April 13) and next Monday (April 15).
Denver will be away to Spurs and Grizzlies. The Timberwolves host the Hawks and Suns. Thunder has the most intense match schedule when they meet the Bucks and Mavericks respectively.
