Nuggets vs Timberwolves Recap: MIN Grabbed Game 3 Lead in 113-96 Win

Minnesota put on a show Thursday night, crushing Denver 113-96 to take control of the series. The Timberwolves came out firing from the opening tip, jumping to a 25-11 lead by the end of the first quarter. Although Denver tried to battle back throughout the game, Minnesota's defense and ball movement proved too much to handle. Ayo Dosunmu led the charge with 25 points and 9 assists, orchestrating the offense with precision. Jaden McDaniels added 20 points while playing lockdown defense across 41 minutes. The Timberwolves' depth showed early when they built a 61-39 halftime advantage. Minnesota shot efficiently and moved the basketball beautifully, making Denver's elite defenders look ordinary at times.

Nikola Jokic tried to keep Denver in the fight with 27 points and 15 rebounds, but inefficient shooting hurt the Nuggets' comeback hopes. He connected on only 26.9 percent of his attempts, a rare off night for the superstar. Jamal Murray chipped in 16 points and 4 assists, but also struggled with accuracy at 29.4 percent from the field. When healthy, this Denver duo typically dominates games, yet Thursday they couldn't find their rhythm against Minnesota's defense. Tim Hardaway Jr. provided solid support with 11 points off the bench. The Nuggets entered Game 3 without Peyton Watson and Aaron Gordon due to injury, leaving their rotation thinner than usual. Those absences forced Denver to rely more heavily on their stars, who unfortunately weren't sharp enough to overcome the deficit they faced.

What made Thursday's victory special for Minnesota wasn't just the offensive firepower, but their ability to move the basketball and play suffocating defense. Jaden McDaniels showed his two-way dominance, posting 20 points with stellar perimeter defense that bothered Denver's shooters constantly. Donte DiVincenzo distributed 7 assists while contributing 15 points of his own, keeping the offense flowing smoothly. Julius Randle added 15 points and brought playoff experience to stabilize Minnesota's offense when Edwards faced defensive pressure. When Anthony Edwards checked out late in the fourth quarter with a knee issue, the Timberwolves' depth meant his absence didn't hurt them. Minnesota's defense forced Denver into tough looks throughout the night, preventing any serious comeback attempt. This series is far from over, but Thursday proved the Timberwolves belong among the West's elite teams.