Full Breakdown
Timberwolves Overcome Injuries to Eliminate Nuggets in Game 6
5/2/2026, 4:08:19 AM
Game 6: Timberwolves Clinch Series Over Nuggets
On Thursday night, the Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets 110–98 in Game 6, closing the Western Conference first-round series 4–2. The win moves the No. 6 seed to the second round against the San Antonio Spurs on Monday.
Background & Context
Minnesota entered without its three starting guards—Ayo Dosunmu, Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo—who were on the inactive list. The team responded by “going big,” using center Rudy Gobert with forwards Julius Randle and Naz Reid. Denver, the 2023 NBA champion, had eliminated Minnesota in five games the previous season.
Key Performers & Statistics
Jaden McDaniels posted 32 points and 10 rebounds; Terrence Shannon Jr. added 24 points. Gobert contributed 10 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists. For Denver, Nikola Jokic had 28 points, 10 assists and 9 rebounds; Jamal Murray scored 12 on 4-for-17, and Cameron Johnson led with 27 points. Minnesota out-scored Denver 64–40 in the paint and held a 50–33 rebounding edge.
Official Statements & Responses
Gobert said the win reflected “will” and “heart,” qualities he felt cannot be taught. McDaniels said he was relieved the series was over and proud the team proved its point.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics noted Denver’s lack of “production and spunk” to support Jokic. Murray’s low output and the team’s reliance on three-point shots were highlighted as weaknesses. McDaniels’ “bad defenders” comment added to the rivalry’s tension.
On-the-Ground Reports
The Target Center crowd was described as “roaring,” boosting the Timberwolves’ defensive effort. After DiVincenzo’s early injury, he was seen smiling on the bench with his foot in a cast, underscoring the team’s resolve.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The sources contain no post-game comments from the Nuggets or the NBA, leaving their perspective undocumented. Attendance numbers and detailed shot data are also missing.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is what you don’t really teach. This is about will. It’s about heart, and that’s how we were able to overcome this great challenge,” — Rudy Gobert, Center, Minnesota Timberwolves
- “I’m just happy it’s over, happy we were able to come out on top,” — Jaden McDaniels, Forward, Minnesota Timberwolves
- “Stuff was said. I’m just happy we were all able to prove our point, get the win, and move on to the next round.” — Jaden McDaniels, Forward, Minnesota Timberwolves
- “bad defenders” — Jaden McDaniels, Forward, Minnesota Timberwolves
What’s Next
Minnesota now faces the San Antonio Spurs, who beat the Portland Trail Blazers in five games to claim the No. 2 seed. The Spurs will host Game 1 of the second round on Monday.
