Timberwolves vs Nuggets Game 4: Live Updates, Schedule & How to Watch NBA Playoffs 2026

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets face off in Game 4 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series on Saturday, April 25, 2026, with the Timberwolves leading the series 2-1 after a dominant Game 3 victory.

According to the official NBA schedule, Game 4 is set for 8:30 p.m. ET at Target Center in Minneapolis, broadcast nationally on ABC and available via the ESPN app and DIRECTV. The series shifted to Minnesota after the Timberwolves won Game 3 in Denver by a score of 113-96 on April 23.

Series Background and Recent Results

The Timberwolves entered the series as the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference with a 49-33 record, while the Nuggets secured the No. 3 seed with a 54-28 record. This marks the third playoff meeting between the teams in four seasons.

In their previous encounters, the Nuggets won the 2023 first-round series 4-1 en route to an NBA championship, but the Timberwolves responded with a 4-3 victory in the 2024 Western Conference semifinals.

The 2026 series opened with the Nuggets taking Game 1 in Denver by a score of 116-105 on April 18. The Timberwolves evened the series with a 119-114 win in Game 2 on April 20, similarly in Denver. Minnesota then claimed a commanding Game 3 victory on the road, winning 113-96 in Denver on April 23.

Game 3 Recap: Timberwolves Dominate in Denver

Game 3 saw the Timberwolves impose their will on both ends of the floor. Minnesota shot efficiently while limiting Denver’s offensive output, particularly in the second half when they pulled away for the 17-point victory.

Anthony Edwards continued his strong postseason play for Minnesota, while Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels provided significant contributions on both ends. The Timberwolves’ defense held the Nuggets to just 96 points, their lowest total in the series to date.

For Denver, Nikola Jokić continued to produce solid numbers but faced increased defensive attention from Minnesota’s big men. The Nuggets struggled to uncover consistent scoring beyond their star center, shooting poorly from three-point range in the loss.

Key Players to Watch in Game 4

Anthony Edwards has been a focal point for Minnesota throughout the series, averaging 18.0 points per game in the playoffs while contributing 6.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists. His scoring ability and athleticism have been crucial for the Timberwolves’ offensive production.

Nikola Jokić remains Denver’s primary offensive engine, averaging 21.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game in the postseason. The two-time MVP has been effective despite facing double and triple teams throughout the series.

Rudy Gobert’s defensive presence has been a key factor for Minnesota, particularly in protecting the rim and altering shots. His ability to defend the pick-and-roll has limited Denver’s second-chance opportunities.

Jamal Murray provides essential scoring and playmaking for the Nuggets, especially when Jokić rests. His ability to create his own shot and knock down three-pointers will be significant for Denver’s offensive rhythm.

How to Watch and Follow the Game

For viewers in the United States, Game 4 will be broadcast nationally on ABC with streaming available through the ESPN app and DIRECTV. International viewers should check local listings for NBA broadcast partners in their respective regions.

The game will begin at 8:30 p.m. ET, which corresponds to 7:30 p.m. CT in Minneapolis and 5:30 p.m. PT in Denver. For global audiences, the start time is 00:30 UTC on April 26, 2026.

Live updates and minute-by-minute coverage will be available through the NBA’s official website and app, as well as major sports news outlets. Archysport will provide ongoing coverage throughout the game with key moments and statistical updates.

Series Implications and What’s Next

With the Timberwolves leading 2-1, they hold a significant advantage in the best-of-seven series. A Game 4 victory would put Minnesota up 3-1, requiring the Nuggets to win three consecutive games to advance.

If the series extends beyond Game 4, Game 5 is scheduled for Monday, April 27, 2026, at 10:30 p.m. ET in Denver. Potential Games 6 and 7 would follow on April 30 and May 2, respectively, if necessary.

The winner of this series will advance to the Western Conference semifinals to face the winner of the Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks series.

Injury Updates and Availability

As of the latest reports, both teams have been relatively healthy heading into Game 4. The Timberwolves have noted that Anthony Edwards has been managing his right knee throughout the playoffs but has remained available for all games.

For the Nuggets, there have been no significant injury concerns reported for their rotation players. Aaron Gordon was listed as out for Game 3 due to a calf issue but is expected to be reevaluated for Game 4.

Both coaching staffs have indicated they will monitor player minutes and fatigue levels closely as the series progresses, particularly given the physical nature of the matchups between the frontcourts.

Historical Context and Trends

The Timberwolves and Nuggets have developed a competitive rivalry in recent years, with their playoff series often featuring high-scoring games and strong individual performances. The teams split their regular-season series 2-2 in 2025-26, with each team winning at home.

Historically, teams that win Game 3 on the road in a best-of-seven series after splitting the first two games have gone on to win the series approximately 65% of the time, based on NBA playoff data.

The altitude difference between Denver (5,280 feet) and Minneapolis (830 feet) has been a factor in previous matchups, though both teams have shown ability to adapt to the conditions in their respective venues.

Where to Find Official Updates

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, fans should consult:

• The NBA’s official website (NBA.com) and mobile app
• The Minnesota Timberwolves’ official website and social media channels
• The Denver Nuggets’ official website and social media channels
• Official broadcast partners including ABC, ESPN, and NBA TV

As the Timberwolves seem to extend their series lead and the Nuggets aim to avoid falling into a 3-1 deficit, Game 4 promises to be a pivotal contest in this Western Conference first-round matchup. The outcome will significantly shape the trajectory of both teams’ playoff hopes.

Stay tuned to Archysport for live updates, post-game analysis, and continued coverage of the NBA playoffs as the Timberwolves and Nuggets battle for advancement to the next round.

Next checkpoint: Game 4 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets tips off Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 8:30 p.m. ET. Follow along for live coverage and join the conversation by sharing your thoughts in the comments below.