The Minnesota Timberwolves delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Denver Nuggets 115-70 to force a decisive Game 7 in the Western Conference semifinals. Anthony Edwards led the charge with 27 points, while Jaden McDaniels added 21 points and stellar defense. Mike Conley contributed 13 points in his return from injury, and the trio of Rudy Gobert, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Naz Reid combined for 38 rebounds, limiting MVP Nikola Jokic to 22 points.
Edwards’ aggressive play, highlighted by a series of dynamic drives and dunks, set the tone early. “Guys just believing in themselves,” Edwards said, reflecting on the team’s renewed confidence. The Timberwolves’ defense held the Nuggets to just 14 points in the first quarter, tied for the second-lowest total in the postseason this year.
Jamal Murray struggled for the Nuggets, scoring only 10 points on 4-for-18 shooting, hampered by a sore elbow. Denver’s bench was outscored 36-9, with the Timberwolves’ reserves leading a 24-0 run in the fourth quarter. The Nuggets, shooting a dismal 7-for-36 from three-point range, were out-rebounded 62-43 and trailed by double digits for the majority of the game.
Coach Chris Finch praised his team’s effort, stating, “It just felt like we hadn’t had our best effort on both sides of the ball yet.” The Timberwolves’ balanced attack and tenacious defense were key to their dominant win.
Game 7 will be held in Denver, where the defending champions will look to regroup and secure a spot in the Western Conference finals. The Timberwolves, buoyed by their resounding Game 6 victory, aim to continue their momentum and upset the top-seeded Nuggets.