Game recap: Nuggets pull away in the second half
DENVER defeated Minnesota 127-114 in a game that underscored Denver’s depth and the impact of the Timberwolves’ injuries. Nikola Jokic posted a triple-double for the third time this season (25 points, 19 rebounds, 10 assists), and Jamal Murray exploded for 43 points, including a decisive burst in the third quarter. The Nuggets took control by outscoring Minnesota 45-29 in the third period, flipping a halftime deficit into a comfortable lead and never looking back.
The Timberwolves, playing without star guard Anthony Edwards due to a strained right hamstring, and reserve guard Jaylen Clark because of left calf tightness, faced a tougher climb against a Nuggets squad eager to prove its resilience without two key players. Minnesota trailed by as many as seven in the third before Murray’s hot stretch and Denver’s late-quarter surge put the game out of reach.
Key performances: Jokic and Murray carry the load
Jokic’s all-around dominance lived up to his reputation. His 25 points came with 19 rebounds and 10 assists, marking his third triple-double in as many games this season and the 167th of his illustrious career, placing him third on the NBA’s all-time triple-double list. The Serbian superstar continued to show why he’s one of the league’s most versatile players, affecting the game with scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.
Murray was the standout offensively for Denver, scoring 23 of his 43 points in the pivotal third period. He connected on five three-pointers and converted at various levels—pull-up jumpers, drive-and-kick opportunities, and timely scores to stretch the margin. The Nuggets also received solid contributions from Tim Hardaway Jr. (20 points) and Peyton Watson, who added 12, helping to cushion the absence of Edwards with steady scoring from the wing position.
Impact of the Timberwolves’ injuries
Edwards’ absence loomed large for Minnesota, especially against a team that thrives on multi-faceted scorers and ball movement. Edwards averaged 31.5 points per game against Denver last season, so his absence left the Timberwolves with fewer dynamic scoring options and less attacking punch. Minnesota leaned on Jaden McDaniels, who logged 25 points to lead the team, while Julius Randle contributed 24 and Naz Reid added 18 in a balanced offensive showing. Yet without Edwards to destabilize Denver’s defense, the Wolves found it harder to sustain momentum once Jokic and Murray found rhythm in the second half.
The Timberwolves did rally in stretches, trimming leads and attempting to capitalize on occasional defensive stops. However, Colorado’s depth and the slow-building rhythm of Jokic on the interior proved to be too much after halftime. Minnesota did manage to pull within three late in the third quarter, but Watson’s instant offense and a 10-0 run restored Denver’s cushion and sealed the game’s outcome.
Strategic angles and turning points
Denver’s decision to lean on Murray to kick-start the third quarter paid immediate dividends. A string of scores—starting with a slashing drive and a timely three, followed by more perimeter shooting—put the Nuggets ahead and forced Minnesota to respond in kind. The Nuggets’ defense clamped down, limiting the Timberwolves’ efficiency at the point of attack and funneling shots toward Jokic’s playmaking, which kept Denver in control as the third quarter wore on.
Late in the frame, Hardaway hit a pair of triples that widened the margin, and Denver closed the third quarter with momentum. The 10-0 burst in the fourth quarter, sparked by Watson, effectively put the game on ice and allowed the Nuggets to rest key players as they prepare for the next showdown.
Looking ahead: schedules and implications
Denver will host New Orleans in the next game, seeking to build on the momentum from their comeback win. For Minnesota, the schedule remains a test of depth and tactical adjustments without Edwards. They will look to rebound when they host the Los Angeles Lakers, hoping to stabilize their rotation and redefine their offensive flow with the roster impact of recent injuries. The upcoming matchups will be telling about both teams’ resilience and adjustment capacity as the season advances.
Bottom line
The Nuggets showed they can win at a high level without two star players, relying on Jokic’s all-around mastery and Murray’s explosive scoring in critical moments. For Minnesota, the absence of Edwards exposed the team’s vulnerability against a top-tier opponent, but the early signs of solid contributions from role players offer a hopeful path forward as the schedule tightens.
