The Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves are locked in one of the fiercest battles we’ve seen this postseason. After falling behind 0-2 at home, the defending champion Nuggets have stormed back to tie things up, setting the stage for what could be a classic seven-game Western Conference Semifinal series.
Game / News Breakdown
Game 4 of the series in Minnesota was crucial—and the Nuggets played like their season depended on it. After dropping the first two games of the series at Ball Arena, Denver responded with poise and urgency, winning both Games 3 and 4 on the road. Led by a sharp offensive outing and tightened defensive execution, the Nuggets took Game 4 with a 115-107 victory.
The momentum shift began in Game 3, where Denver imposed a more physical presence, particularly on the boards and through half-court sets that slowed down the Wolves’ high-tempo offense. In Game 4, they carried that formula forward, with better ball movement and stellar shot-making in crunch time.
Denver’s second-quarter run in Game 4 gave them a cushion they never relinquished. The Timberwolves tried to rally in the fourth, but clutch shooting and disciplined defense sealed the win for the Nuggets.
Key Players & Performances
Nikola Jokić continues to prove why he’s the reigning MVP. His ability to dictate the pace of the game while scoring with efficiency and facilitating Denver’s offense was key in both wins on the road.
– **Nikola Jokić**:
– 35 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists in Game 4
– Shooting over 50% from the field in the series
Jokić is far from alone. Jamal Murray shook off early-series struggles and delivered in Game 4 with crucial buckets down the stretch. Murray’s mid-range game and off-the-dribble shooting added a new layer for Denver’s offense.
– **Jamal Murray**:
– 19 points, 8 assists, including two clutch baskets in the fourth quarter
On the Timberwolves’ side, Anthony Edwards continues to impress with his fearlessness, scoring in bunches and showing his growth in just his second playoff run.
– **Anthony Edwards**:
– Led Minnesota with 36 points in Game 4
– Averaging 33.8 PPG this series
However, the Wolves have struggled to get consistent contributions from other starters. Karl-Anthony Towns had moments, but his shooting efficiency has dipped under pressure, and turnovers have been costly.
Team Impact & Standings
The series now stands tied at 2-2 heading back to Denver. What looked like a potential upset sweep by the Timberwolves has quickly turned into a heavyweight back-and-forth. The Nuggets have reclaimed home-court advantage, and their experience is beginning to show.
For Minnesota, the pressure now falls heavily on rediscovering the intensity and defensive chemistry that gave them the initial 2-0 lead. Rudy Gobert’s rim protection has been less impactful the last two games, and the Wolves’ overall defensive communication needs a reset.
– Denver: Regained confidence and momentum
– Minnesota: Searching for defensive stability and improved ball movement
If Denver wins Game 5 at home, the defending champs will be in a strong position to close out the series. But if Minnesota can bounce back and steal another road win, all bets are off.
What’s Next
Game 5 is set to take place at Denver’s Ball Arena, where the Nuggets will try to build on their rediscovered rhythm. Expect a raucous crowd and both teams playing with a playoff-level intensity.
Key factors to watch:
– Can Minnesota adjust defensively to slow down Jokić’s playmaking again?
– Will Murray keep up his improved rhythm after early-series struggles?
– Can the Timberwolves get more from Towns, both offensively and in rebounding?
Coaches will also be under the microscope. Michael Malone has made smart defensive switches and offensive tweaks, especially off ball screens. Chris Finch, meanwhile, needs to spark better offensive execution, particularly against Denver’s slower, physical defense.
Conclusion
This series has turned into a war of adjustments. After losing two at home, the Nuggets proved champions don’t go down quietly. They wrestled back control, and now it’s up to Minnesota to answer.
With Game 5 looming large, both teams know the winner of that clash likely gains the upper hand in what’s now a gripping, evenly matched series. Don’t look away—this one has all the makings of a playoff classic.