Timberwolves seize 2-1 lead with dominant defensive performance
PUBLISHED Apr 24, 2026, 1:26 AM ET
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MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Denver Nuggets 113-96 on Thursday night in Game 3 of their first-round NBA playoff series, taking a 2-1 lead. Jaden McDaniels had 20 points and 10 rebounds, Ayo Dosunmu added 25 points and nine assists off the bench, and Rudy Gobert limited Nikola Jokić. The loss occurred with starting forward Aaron Gordon sidelined by left calf tightness; Jokic shot 7-for-26 and Jamal Murray was 5-for-17. The Timberwolves established a postseason franchise mark by allowing just 11 points in the first quarter, and the series now shifts to Game 4, where Denver must adjust its rotations and recover offensively.
By Michael Grant | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- After Game 2, Jaden McDaniels publicly called Denver defenders "bad defenders."
- Thursday, Game 3 played in Minneapolis: Timberwolves won 113-96.
- Aaron Gordon was sidelined with left calf tightness for Denver in Game 3.
- Nikola Jokic shot 7-for-26 and Jamal Murray was 5-for-17 in Game 3.
- Timberwolves took a 2-1 lead; teams prepare for Game 4 next.
News Intelligence
- The Timberwolves' victory is a testament to teamwork and strategy. If you're a fan, it's a proud moment. If you're a Nuggets supporter, it's time to rally. Either way, it's a reminder that in sports, as in life, setbacks can lead to comebacks.
- Articles Published:
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- 0
- Left Leaning:
- 1
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- Distribution:
- Left 17%, Center 83%, Right 0%
The Minnesota Timberwolves benefited by securing a 2-1 playoff series lead, gaining momentum and defensive confidence heading into Game 4.
The Denver Nuggets suffered from poor shooting and the absence of Aaron Gordon, falling behind 2-1 and losing key offensive rhythm in the series.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
'Ornery' Jaden McDaniels backs up 'bad defenders' talk with a playoff masterpiece
The New York TimesFrom Center
Timberwolves seize 2-1 lead with dominant defensive performance
Sportsnet The Denver Post Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer The Straits Times The Denver PostFrom Right
No right-leaning sources found for this story.
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