Timberwolves Eliminate Nuggets, Advance to Face Spurs in NBA Playoffs

MINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Denver Nuggets 110-98 on Thursday, May 1, 2026, eliminating the defending champions and advancing to the second round of the NBA playoffs where they will face the San Antonio Spurs. The victory marked the earliest playoff exit for the Nuggets since the 2017-18 season.

Shorthanded Timberwolves Pull Off Upset

Playing without Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves showcased a dominant performance, controlling the game for the majority of the contest. Minnesota’s aggressive play proved too much for Denver to handle, particularly in the paint, where they outscored the Nuggets 64-40. The Timberwolves’ victory concludes the series 4-2.

Key Performances Lead the Way

Jaden McDaniels and Terrence Shannon Jr. Spearheaded the Timberwolves’ offensive attack, scoring 32 and 24 points respectively. While their three-point shooting was limited (2-for-11 combined), their relentless drives to the basket and overall energy were pivotal. Rudy Gobert contributed significantly on the boards, securing a game-high 19 rebounds.

Nuggets Struggle Without Gordon

The absence of Aaron Gordon in the lineup clearly impacted the Nuggets’ ability to compete. Denver struggled to establish a presence in the paint, allowing Minnesota to dictate the game’s tempo. Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 28 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Timberwolves’ balanced attack and defensive intensity.

Statistical Breakdown

Minnesota’s dominance was reflected in the box score. They led in rebounds (50-33), assists (26-24) and steals (8-4). Despite committing more turnovers (13 to Denver’s 8), the Timberwolves capitalized on those opportunities, scoring 16 points off turnovers compared to Denver’s 10. Field goal percentages were relatively close, with Minnesota shooting 46% from the field and Denver at 45%, but Minnesota’s free throw percentage of 71% compared to Denver’s 80% was a key difference.

Game Flow and Turning Points

The Timberwolves established control early, building a lead that Denver struggled to erase. Denver’s last lead of the game came with approximately six minutes remaining in the second quarter. Minnesota continued to extend their advantage throughout the second half, culminating in a comfortable victory. The Timberwolves’ largest lead reached 12 points in the closing minute of the game.

What’s Next for the Timberwolves?

The Minnesota Timberwolves will now prepare to face the San Antonio Spurs in the second round of the NBA playoffs. The series is expected to be a challenging matchup, with the Spurs boasting a strong roster and a proven playoff pedigree. The Timberwolves will be hoping for the return of Anthony Edwards to bolster their chances of success. The schedule for the series has not yet been announced.

Nuggets Face Offseason Questions

For the Denver Nuggets, this early exit raises questions about their future. The team will need to assess their roster and identify areas for improvement during the offseason. The health of key players, including Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic, will likewise be a critical factor moving forward. This marks a significant setback for a team that had aspirations of repeating as NBA champions.

Key Takeaways

• The Minnesota Timberwolves have upset the defending champion Denver Nuggets in six games.
• Jaden McDaniels and Terrence Shannon Jr. Led the Timberwolves in scoring.
• The absence of Aaron Gordon significantly impacted the Nuggets’ performance.
• The Timberwolves will face the San Antonio Spurs in the second round of the playoffs.

The Timberwolves’ victory is a testament to their resilience and determination. They overcame adversity and delivered a stunning performance against a formidable opponent. Fans can stay updated on the Timberwolves’ playoff journey through the team’s official website and social media channels.