Nuggets vs Timberwolves Preview: Clash in Minnesota

The Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves have split their first two playoff games, making Game 3 a crucial matchup. Denver comes in as the third seed with their championship experience, while Minnesota sits at sixth but has played tough basketball all season. Although Nikola Jokic missed games earlier due to a knee injury, he has returned to form, scoring nearly 29 points per game with excellent efficiency. Anthony Edwards has been equally dominant for Minnesota, averaging about 29 points and leading his team's upset win in Game 2. This series is completely tied, and both teams know today's game in Minnesota could shift everything heading forward.

Nikola Jokic represents Denver's biggest weapon when healthy. The three-time MVP controls the tempo beautifully and averages a triple-double with nearly 29 points, 11 assists, and 12 rebounds. His shooting efficiency is remarkable, connecting on 60% of his field goals and 43% from three-point range. Alongside him, Jamal Murray has looked sharp, scoring 25 points per game while shooting nearly 50% overall and 46% from deep. When both stars play at this level, Denver becomes incredibly difficult to defend. Aaron Gordon remains probable for today's game despite calf tightness, adding another scoring threat.

Anthony Edwards has absolutely exploded onto the superstar level this season. Averaging nearly 30 points per game, he has become Minnesota's undisputed leader and one of the league's brightest young talents. His late-game confidence proved crucial in Minnesota's Game 2 victory, when he dominated down the stretch against Denver. Julius Randle, acquired in a major trade, provides steady secondary scoring with about 23 points per game and brings playoff toughness. However, Edwards was listed as questionable heading into the series with potential availability concerns. On defense, Rudy Gobert anchors the paint while Jaden McDaniels guards opponents' best perimeter scorers, giving Minnesota elite defensive versatility that can slow Denver's offense.