Denver Nuggets Defeat Minnesota Timberwolves 112-97, Take 3-2 Series Lead

Nikola Jokić Leads Nuggets to Victory

In a highly anticipated Western Conference semifinals matchup, the Denver Nuggets emerged victorious over the Minnesota Timberwolves 112-97 on Tuesday, May 10, 2024. The Nuggets now hold a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Jokić Dominates Inside

Denver's star center, Nikola Jokić, was unstoppable against Minnesota's defense. He finished the game with 30 points, 22 rebounds, and 9 assists, dominating inside the paint against Rudy Gobert and the Timberwolves' frontcourt. Jokić's size and skill proved too much for Minnesota to handle, as he consistently found open looks near the basket and created scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Denver's Supporting Cast Steps Up

While Jokić led the way for the Nuggets, he received plenty of support from his teammates. Jamal Murray added 25 points, while Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. chipped in with 18 and 16 points, respectively. Denver's balanced scoring attack kept Minnesota's defense on its heels, preventing them from focusing solely on Jokić.

Timberwolves Struggle to Keep Up

The Timberwolves, who had won the first two games of the series at home, struggled to keep pace with Denver in Game 5. Karl-Anthony Towns led Minnesota with 20 points and 11 rebounds, but he was largely ineffective against Jokić's defense. Anthony Edwards added 18 points, but the rest of the Timberwolves' roster failed to provide consistent support.

Nuggets Look to Close Out Series

With the series shifting back to Denver for Game 6 on Thursday, May 12, 2024, the Nuggets will have a chance to close out the Timberwolves and advance to the Western Conference Finals. The Timberwolves, on the other hand, will need to find a way to slow down Jokić and regain the home-court advantage if they want to extend the series.