In a must-win Game 3 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs, the Denver Nuggets showed why they are the reigning champions, defeating theMinnesota Timberwolves117-90 on Friday night. This pivotal victory brought the series score to 2-1, giving the Nuggets a crucial lifeline after being down two games.

Jokic and Murray lead the charge

The Nuggets‘ dynamic duo of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murrayproved too much for the Timberwolves. Jokic, the versatile center, put up a near triple-double with 24 points, 14 rebounds, 9 assists, 3 steals, and 3 blocks, demonstrating why he’s a perennial MVP candidate. Murray matched Jokic’s 24 points and added 5 assists and 3 steals, keeping the Timberwolves’ defense on their heels all night.

Michael Porter Jr. also made significant contributions, scoring 21 points with an impressive 80% accuracy from beyond the arc. Together, Jokic, Murray, and Porter Jr. combined for 69 points, nearly outscoring the entire Timberwolves team.

Timberwolves struggle at home

The Timberwolves, who had been undefeated in this postseason before this game, faced unexpected struggles. Anthony Edwards, despite drawing comparisons to basketball legends, could only muster 19 points. The team overall shot a dismal 43.7% from the field, a stark contrast to their previous performances.

Rudy Gobert, returning after missing Game 2 for personal reasons, couldn’t impact the game as expected. The four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year was limited to just four rebounds, and his presence in the paint was sorely missed as the Nuggets dominated the boards.

Looking ahead

With Game 4 scheduled for Sunday at 8 PM ET, the Timberwolves still lead the series but now face a resurgent Nuggets team eager to even the score. The Nuggets, looking to build on their commanding Game 3 win, aim to prove that their championship pedigree can carry them through adversity. The question now is whether they can maintain their momentum or if the Timberwolves will regain their early series form and push Denver to the brink of elimination.