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Jokic Triple-Double Powers Denver Past Minnesota, Forces Game 6

4/28/2026

38 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Nikola Jokic posted a 27-point, 12-rebound, 16-assist triple-double as Denver beat Minnesota 125-113 in Game 5.
The victory reduced the series margin to 3-2 and forced a Game 6 in Minneapolis.
Minnesota entered without Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo, who were ruled out after injuries in Game 4.
Denver was missing Aaron Gordon, listed as questionable, and Peyton Watson, who was ruled out for the series.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 NBA Finals saw Michael Jordan overcome a flu-like illness to hit the game-winner for the Chicago Bulls, clinching a sixth title after a 62-20 season against the Utah Jazz. Decades later, in 2024, Nikola Jokic recorded a 27-point, 12-rebound, 16-assist triple-double as Denver faced a Minnesota Timberwolves depleted by injuries to Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo, echoing how health can swing playoff outcomes.

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Story summary

Nikola Jokic posted a 27-point, 12-rebound, 16-assist triple-double as Denver beat Minnesota 125-113 in Game 5.
The victory reduced the series margin to 3-2 and forced a Game 6 in Minneapolis.
Minnesota entered without Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo, who were ruled out after injuries in Game 4.
Denver was missing Aaron Gordon, listed as questionable, and Peyton Watson, who was ruled out for the series.

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