The Denver Nuggets may not have won in style, but they did secure the win that mattered. As the top-seeded team, they emerged victorious against the eighth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference first-round series with a 112-109 victory in Game 5. Despite falling behind by 15 points, the Nuggets held off their opponents to win the series 4-1 and advance to the conference semifinals.
Jokic and Murray Lead the Way
Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic played a significant role in the Nuggets’ victory. Murray finished with 35 points, including 12 in the second quarter, while Jokic recorded a triple-double with 28 points, 17 rebounds, and 12 assists. He became the fifth player in NBA history to have 25-15-10 in a clinching opportunity.
Looking Ahead to the Semifinals
The Nuggets will face the fourth-seeded Phoenix Suns in the conference semifinals, which start on Saturday at Ball Arena. With home-court advantage throughout the Western Conference playoffs, the Nuggets have an excellent chance of success, having won 37 of their 44 home games this season. However, they will face a tough challenge against the Suns, with Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and Deandre Ayton among their star players.
Murray acknowledged the importance of getting off to a better start against the Suns. The team has shown resilience in fighting back from deficits, but they will need to rely on their defense and get stops to avoid falling behind. Jokic also praised the Suns, describing them as the favorites to win the championship, and acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead.
Despite the hard-fought victory over the Timberwolves, the Nuggets remain focused on their goal of winning the championship. Michael Porter Jr. said the team is proud of what they have accomplished so far but recognizes that there is more to come. The playoffs are a long road, and with four wins down and 12 to go, the Nuggets are ready for the challenge.
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