Timberwolves Eliminate Defending Champion Nuggets in Game 6 to Set Up Semifinal Clash With Spurs

Minnesota overcomes four key injuries to eliminate the Denver Nuggets in Game 6. Jaden McDaniels scores 32 to set up a second-round series against the Spurs.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 12:42 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from BasketUSA.

Minnesota Defies Roster Depletion to Clinch Series

The Minnesota Timberwolves authored a heroic chapter in franchise history by eliminating the Denver Nuggets in six games, despite entering the contest without Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, Ayo Dosunmu, and Kyle Anderson. The 110,98 victory was fueled by an opportunistic offense and a relentless defensive scheme that capitalized on Denver’s uncharacteristic shooting struggles. By securing the win, Minnesota advances to the Western Conference Semifinals, where they are scheduled to face Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs in a matchup that features two of the league's premier defensive anchors.

Early Quarter Volatility and Bench Contributions

The opening period saw a sluggish start from Minnesota, but rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. and veteran Julius Randle provided the necessary energy to spark a 19,13 lead. Denver briefly reclaimed the momentum behind the perimeter shooting of Cam Johnson and Tim Hardaway Jr., who combined for several late three-pointers to give the Nuggets a one-point edge at the end of the first quarter. However, the game shifted into a grinding, physical affair in the second period as Denver struggled to maintain offensive rhythm whenever Nikola Jokic rested on the bench, allowing Minnesota to regain a 57,50 halftime lead.

The Defensive Neutralization of Jamal Murray

The primary catalyst for the Nuggets' elimination was the total offensive disappearance of Jamal Murray, who finished the night shooting a dismal 4 for 17 from the field. Throughout the series and specifically in Game 6, Minnesota strategically targeted Murray on both ends of the floor. Jaden McDaniels used his superior wingspan to contest every attempt, effectively erasing the "Playoff Jamal" persona that had defined previous Denver title runs. This defensive lockdown forced Nikola Jokic into an isolated role where he was required to facilitate and score without reliable secondary support.