In a closely contested matchup reminiscent of their playoff series last year, the Minnesota Timberwolves managed to outlast the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday night, despite a record-breaking performance from Nikola Jokic. The reigning MVP put on an extraordinary show, scoring 61 points while recording a triple-double, marking the highest points ever scored in a triple-double in NBA history. However, the Nuggets ultimately fell to the Timberwolves, losing 140-139 in double overtime, a game that turned crucial for both teams amidst their playoff race.
The game’s dramatic conclusion came as Russell Westbrook fouled Nickeil Alexander-Walker with only seconds left on the clock. The Timberwolves were trailing by a single point, and after a review by officials, Alexander-Walker was awarded three free throws. He calmly sank the first two shots, leaving only 0.1 seconds on the game clock, sealing a heartbreaking loss for the Nuggets fans gathered at Ball Arena.
Coach Michael Malone showed compassion for Westbrook post-game, stating, “I feel awful for Russ,” highlighting the sportsmanship that often permeates high-pressure basketball situations.
The Nuggets faced significant challenges during the game, playing without two key players, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. This situation placed more responsibility on Jokic, resulting in him taking on a more scoring-focused role rather than his typical playmaking duties. He showcased his offensive prowess, finishing the game with an impressive shooting performance of 18-of-29, alongside 11 rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals, while also playing a career-high 53 minutes.
Despite Jokic’s remarkable effort, the Nuggets fell short, making them 0-3 in games where he has scored over 50 points. In NBA history, only two other players, James Harden and Luka Dončić, had achieved 60-point triple-doubles, making Jokic’s feat even more significant.
On the other side, the Timberwolves had their own star showing in Anthony Edwards, who was relatively quiet through the early parts of the game. However, he came alive in the fourth quarter, finishing the game with 34 points after scoring 13 points in the crucial final minutes. His timely back-to-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter helped shift momentum in favor of Minnesota, showcasing his growing impact on the game.
As the overtime period unfolded, the game took on a distinctly individual feel, particularly after Gobert fouled out, leaving the responsibility with the remaining stars on the floor. Jokic chose to forgo rest during this pivotal phase, a testament to his determination and resilience. Edwards matched this intensity, showing why he’s considered one of the rising stars in the league.
The final moments of the game centered around Westbrook, adding a bittersweet twist to the night. Although he contributed 12 points, six rebounds, and seven assists, his late foul turned the tide of the game, showing just how quickly fortunes can change in basketball.
With this defeat, the Nuggets now find themselves just half a game ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference standings and two games behind the second-place Houston Rockets. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves improved their record to 44-32, placing them in a tie with the Memphis Grizzlies for the sixth and final guaranteed playoff spot in the Western Conference.
As the teams prepare for the final stretch of the regular season, both franchises have critical games ahead, aiming to secure their positions for a chance at postseason success. The dramatic nature of Tuesday’s match illustrates that every moment counts in the league, where even a single foul can shift the fate of a game. Fans can look forward to the concluding weeks of the season, with hopeful aspirations for their teams as the playoffs approach.
