The Western Conference playoff race intensified on April 2, 2025, as the Denver Nuggets hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves at Ball Arena in a thrilling double-overtime showdown that ended in heartbreak for the Nuggets.
Nikola Jokic delivered an incredible performance, scoring a staggering 61 points, but it was Russell Westbrook's mental blunder in the closing moments that ultimately cost Denver the game. With the Nuggets leading 139-138, Westbrook missed a crucial fast-break layup and then fouled Nickeil Alexander-Walker on a three-point attempt at the buzzer, allowing the Timberwolves to snatch a 140-139 victory at the free-throw line.
The game started off with the Nuggets taking control early on, thanks to a red-hot Aaron Gordon, who helped Denver jump out to a 12-point lead just four minutes into the first quarter. The Nuggets' defense was stifling, particularly Peyton Watson's efforts to contain Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards. Denver led 32-26 at the end of the first quarter, despite a late 11-2 run from Minnesota.
As the second quarter unfolded, the Timberwolves opened with a 7-0 run, tying the game. The Nuggets struggled offensively, relying heavily on Jokic, who managed to keep Denver in front until the end of the half when a 10-0 run by Minnesota saw them take a slim lead. At halftime, the Nuggets held a narrow 53-52 advantage.
The third quarter saw Rudy Gobert posing problems for the Nuggets near the rim, allowing the Timberwolves to regain the lead. Jokic continued to shine, showcasing his playmaking skills with a behind-the-back assist to Christian Braun. However, the Timberwolves maintained a slight edge, leading 84-79 by the end of the quarter.
Entering the fourth quarter, Jokic was determined to lead his team back, igniting a 10-0 run to start the period, scoring seven of those points himself. The Nuggets' defense tightened, but Minnesota responded with an 8-1 run, taking a three-point lead with just two minutes remaining. Jokic managed to tie the game with free throws after being fouled on a shot, sending the game into overtime.
In the first overtime, Minnesota initially took the lead, but the Nuggets rallied back, with Jokic tying the game again with just seven seconds left, forcing a second overtime. The intensity escalated, with Mike Conley hitting key threes for Minnesota, but Jokic sparked another run, pushing Denver ahead momentarily.
As the clock wound down in double overtime, the Nuggets found themselves in a precarious situation. Westbrook's missed free throw late in the period set the stage for the final drama. After a chaotic sequence where the Nuggets stole the ball, Westbrook's decision to push for a layup instead of holding the ball proved disastrous. He missed the layup and fouled Alexander-Walker, who converted two of three free throws to seal the win for the Timberwolves.
This game marked the fourth and final regular-season meeting between the teams, with Minnesota completing a four-game sweep over Denver this season. The Timberwolves had previously won the first matchup by three points, followed by a 29-point victory and a 20-point win in the subsequent games.
As the playoffs approach, this loss is a significant blow for the Nuggets, who were without key players Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Murray missed the game due to tightness in his right hamstring, while Porter was a late scratch for personal reasons. Coach Michael Malone expressed his support for Porter, emphasizing the importance of family, while acknowledging the challenges of playing without two starters.
Despite the setback, Jokic's performance will be remembered as one of the highlights of the season, showcasing his ability to carry the team on his back. Averaging 29.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.2 assists this season, Jokic continues to solidify his status as one of the league's elite players.
As the Nuggets look ahead, they must regroup and find a way to bounce back from this heartbreaking defeat. With only a handful of games remaining in the regular season, every matchup becomes crucial as they aim to secure a favorable position in the playoffs.
The loss to the Timberwolves not only stings but raises questions about the Nuggets' ability to perform under pressure, especially with the playoffs looming. Denver currently sits third in the Western Conference standings, and with the competition tightening, they will need to find their rhythm quickly to avoid slipping further down the playoff ladder.
