Full Breakdown
Nuggets-Timberwolves Game 4 Scuffle Leads to Fines
4/27/2026, 7:57:52 PM
Core Event: Late-Game Altercation and NBA Discipline
With 1.2–1.3 seconds remaining in Game 4 of the first-round series, Minnesota forward Jaden McDaniels made an uncontested layup that extended the Timberwolves’ lead to 112-96. Denver center Nikola Jokic ran the length of the court, confronted and shoved McDaniels. The ensuing scramble drew in several players, including Minnesota forward Julius Randle, who shoved Nuggets guard-forward Bruce Brown. Both Jokic and Randle received technical fouls, were ejected, and were later fined $50,000 and $35,000 respectively. No suspensions were imposed.
Background & Context: Series Stakes and Unwritten Rule
The incident occurred in a series where Minnesota leads 3-1 and is missing guard Anthony Edwards (knee) and guard Donte DiVincenzo (torn Achilles). Denver must win three straight to survive. The play violated an unwritten NBA convention that teams cease offensive attempts when a game is out of reach, a norm cited by multiple participants.
Key Figures & Groups
- Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets center, three-time MVP.
- Julius Randle – Minnesota Timberwolves forward-center.
- Jaden McDaniels – Minnesota forward who scored the final basket.
- Bruce Brown – Nuggets guard-forward shoved by Randle.
- David Adelman – Nuggets head coach.
- James Jones – NBA executive vice president, head of basketball operations, announced fines.
