MIN vs DEN Recap: Nuggets Rally Stuns Timberwolves to Go 3-2

The Denver Nuggets stayed alive in their playoff series against Minnesota with a hard-fought 125-113 victory on Monday night. Down three games to two, the Nuggets faced elimination at home, and they responded with intensity and urgency. Nikola Jokic orchestrated the offense like a maestro, posting 27 points, 16 assists, and 12 rebounds while shooting a scorching 60 percent from the field. Jamal Murray added 24 points and stepped up defensively with four steals, proving why Denver's dynamic duo remains one of basketball's most dangerous combinations. Spencer Jones emerged as an unlikely hero off the bench, lighting it up for 20 points on nearly 78 percent shooting. The Nuggets controlled the tempo throughout, never allowing Minnesota to gain momentum despite the Timberwolves fighting hard without their star guard.

The Timberwolves entered Game 5 severely undermanned, missing Anthony Edwards due to a left knee injury he suffered in Game 4. Edwards' absence loomed large, as the young superstar averages nearly 30 points per game and has become the face of Minnesota's franchise. Adding to Minnesota's troubles, guard Donte DiVincenzo suffered a torn Achilles in that same Saturday victory and is expected to miss the entire next season. Julius Randle stepped into the spotlight, delivering 27 points and nine rebounds while shooting efficiently at 53 percent from the floor. Ayo Dosunmu also contributed 18 points on 50 percent shooting, shouldering more offensive load. Despite these losses and the increased pressure on bench players like Bones Hyland, Minnesota fought competitively throughout, staying close until Denver pulled away in the second half.

The pivotal moment came in the third quarter when Denver's defense tightened and their offense hummed. The Nuggets outscored Minnesota 46-24 in that quarter alone, creating a 22-point advantage that proved insurmountable. Jokic and Cameron Johnson led the charge, with Johnson scoring 18 points while shooting 61.5 percent for the game and adding five assists. Spencer Jones' efficient 20-point performance showcased Denver's depth and ability to find scoring from unexpected places. Minnesota's desperate fourth-quarter comeback fell short despite solid efforts from Randle and Dosunmu, who refused to give up. By the final buzzer, Denver had forced a Game 6 and extended their championship dreams. This victory proved that even without Aaron Gordon available, the Nuggets possessed enough firepower and resilience to overcome adversity and keep their season alive in the Western Conference playoffs.