Jaden McDaniels Secures 32 Point Career High as Shorthanded Timberwolves Eliminate Defending Champion Nuggets

Minnesota's Jaden McDaniels scores 32 points in Game 6 clincher to eliminate the Denver Nuggets. Timberwolves advance to face Spurs in 2nd round.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 12:41 PM EDT

A Career Night Defined by Resilient Two Way Play

Jaden McDaniels silenced recent criticism regarding his on court demeanor by delivering the most significant performance of his professional career during a high stakes closeout game. Facing elimination of the defending champion Denver Nuggets, McDaniels recorded 32 points and 10 rebounds while shooting 13 of 25 from the field. His offensive explosion was matched by an elite defensive effort that primarily targeted Denver star Jamal Murray, who was held to just 12 points on 4 for 17 shooting. According to McDaniels, the performance was a direct result of ignoring external noise and focusing on the competitive spirit required to advance in the postseason.

Overcoming Depth Challenges Amidst Roster Attrition

The Timberwolves entered Thursday night’s contest facing immense pressure due to a severely depleted backcourt, with key players Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, and Ayo Dosunmu all sidelined by injuries. To compensate for the loss of shot creation, Minnesota utilized a massive lineup featuring Rudy Gobert, Julius Randle, and Naz Reid. This strategic pivot allowed the Timberwolves to dominate the interior, finishing the night with a 64,40 advantage in points in the paint and outboarding Denver 50,33. According to Rudy Gobert, the team’s ability to overcome these absences was a testament to the collective heart and will of the remaining roster.

Mastery of the Mid Range Scoring Game

Throughout the contest, McDaniels demonstrated a refined offensive repertoire that relied heavily on his ability to find space in the mid range. He consistently utilized screens from Gobert to create separation, often pulling up for contested jumpers when the Denver defense sagged into the paint. The defining moment arrived with just over one minute remaining when McDaniels sank a signature 19 foot pull up jumper to push the lead to seven points. This "dagger" shot effectively ended Denver’s comeback hopes and punctuated a night where McDaniels took 21 of his 25 total field goal attempts from inside the three point arc.