MINNEAPOLIS, MN – The Denver Nuggets showed resilience and determination in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves. After dropping the first two games of the series, the defending NBA champions stepped up, silencing a raucous crowd and regaining momentum with a commanding 117-90 victory.
Jamal Murray led the charge for the Nuggets with 24 points, bouncing back from a rough start to the series. Nikola Jokic, the three-time league MVP, contributed 24 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists, while Michael Porter Jr. added 21 points to secure the win. The Nuggets’ sharpshooting from beyond the arc, hitting 14 of 29 three-pointers, played a crucial role in cutting Minnesota’s series lead to 2-1.
On the other side, Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 19 points, but the team struggled from the three-point line, shooting just 10 for 32. Minnesota failed to capitalize on Karl-Anthony Towns’ efforts, falling behind by as much as 34 points during the game.
The Nuggets’ victory marked a significant turnaround, becoming the 30th team in NBA playoff history to overcome a 2-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series. Head coach Mike Malone emphasized the team’s resilience and character in the face of adversity.
Murray’s improved performance after a lackluster start in the series was pivotal, with his aggressive play and scoring leading the way for the Nuggets. The team’s offensive execution, spearheaded by Jokic and Aaron Gordon, helped create opportunities and relieve pressure on Murray to deliver.
The Nuggets’ energy and focused play disrupted the Wolves’ defensive schemes and rotations, leading to a more effective offensive performance. Despite the return of NBA Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert for the Timberwolves, the Nuggets’ ball movement and shooting proficiency proved too much for Minnesota to handle.
As the game progressed, the Nuggets maintained their lead and thwarted any attempts by the Wolves to mount a comeback. Fans began to leave early as frustrations grew among the Wolves players, culminating in technical fouls for arguing with officials. The Nuggets’ dominant performance highlighted their championship pedigree and ability to bounce back under pressure.
Overall, Denver’s Game 3 victory showcased their determination and talent, setting the stage for an intense and competitive series moving forward. With the series now at 2-1 in favor of the Timberwolves, the Nuggets look to build on their momentum and even the score in the upcoming games.