Full Breakdown
Nikola Jokic’s Triple-Double Saves Nuggets, Sets Up Game 6 vs. Timberwolves
4/28/2026, 9:30:36 PM
Game 5: Nuggets Stave Off Elimination
On April 28, 2026 the Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 125-113 at Ball Arena, avoiding elimination. Nikola Jokic posted a 27-point, 12-rebound, 16-assist triple-double. Jamal Murray added 24 points, Spencer Jones 20 and Cameron Johnson 18. Denver shot 56.6 % and forced 25 turnovers, converting 35 points.
Background & Context
The series was 3-1 for Minnesota after Denver lost three straight games, with Jokic’s shooting under 40 % and Rudy Gobert limiting him. Minnesota entered Game 5 without Anthony Edwards (knee) and Donte DiVincenzo (Achilles). Denver also missed wing players Peyton Watson and Aaron Gordon.
Key Figures & Groups
Nikola Jokic (Denver center, three-time MVP) led with a triple-double; Jamal Murray added 24 points; Spencer Jones contributed 20. For Minnesota, Julius Randle scored 27, while Rudy Gobert was limited to three points.
Data & Statistics
Jokic logged 27 points on 9-15 shooting, 12 rebounds, 16 assists and two blocks. Denver tallied 125 points on 56.6 % shooting (38 % from three) with 35 assists and 16 turnovers. Minnesota scored 113 points on 50.6 % shooting, 26 assists and 25 turnovers. The Timberwolves’ bench contributed 48 points; Denver’s bench added key scoring from Spencer Jones (20) and Cameron Johnson (18).
Why It Matters
The win keeps Denver alive, narrows the series to 3-2 and revives a 2020 comeback route. Jokic’s triple-double ties Russell Westbrook for the most career playoff triple-doubles (23), underscoring his legacy.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach David Adelman praised Jokic’s playmaking and the 16 assists. Jokic said the team must create its own energy and ignore distractions. Coach Chris Finch blamed turnovers for the loss. Julius Randle noted the Nuggets’ championship pedigree. Jamal Murray said the effort felt like playing with a 3-1 deficit.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts cited Jokic’s low shooting and defensive lapses early, crediting Gobert’s defense for Minnesota’s advantage. Finch’s comments highlighted criticism of the Timberwolves’ ball handling.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list Denver’s field-goal percentage as 56.6 % or 57 %; all agree on the 125-113 final score and other key figures.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They’re a championship team. They have championship DNA,” — Julius Randle, Minnesota forward
- “I have been here before. When you're playing an elimination game, you need to be extremely focused.” — Nikola Jokic, Denver center
- “It was the turnovers more than anything else hurt us.” — Chris Finch, Minnesota head coach
- “These [small] sample size games and the freakouts when he doesn't play well. You know he's going to play well. Then his 16 assists. Assists are hard to get unless you make shots.” — David Adelman, Denver head coach
What’s Next
Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday in Minneapolis; the winner will meet the San Antonio Spurs or the Portland Trail Blazers in the Western Conference semifinals.
