In a stunning display of dominance, the Minnesota Timberwolves obliterated the Denver Nuggets 115-70 in Game 6, forcing a pivotal Game 7 in the series. Anthony Edwards led the charge for the Timberwolves, pouring in 27 points and showcasing his determination to push his team to victory. Anthony Edwards flashed seven fingers to the roaring crowd as he walked off for a fourth-quarter timeout.
Jaden McDaniels contributed 21 points along with stellar defensive play, while Mike Conley returned from injury to add 13 points for the Timberwolves. The trio of Rudy Gobert, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Naz Reid controlled the boards, combining for 38 rebounds and effectively limiting NBA MVP Nikola Jokic to 22 points.
“Guys just believing in themselves,” Edwards said. “I think the last three games we were all down on ourselves.”
The Nuggets struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game, with Jamal Murray managing only 10 points on 4-for-18 shooting. Despite efforts from Aaron Gordon, who tallied 12 points and eight rebounds, the Nuggets bench faltered, being outscored 36-9 by the Timberwolves reserves.
The Timberwolves’ commanding performance included a 24-0 run led by their bench in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to a staggering 50 points. This marked the first time in NBA playoff history that a defending champion lost by more than 36 points.
Minnesota’s defensive prowess was on full display, holding the Nuggets to just 70 points and outrebounding them 62-43. With the series now tied at 3-3, the stage is set for a thrilling Game 7 in Denver.
Key players like McDaniels stepped up for the Timberwolves, providing crucial offensive contributions that complemented Edwards’ stellar performance. Meanwhile, Conley’s return bolstered the team’s cohesion and organization on both ends of the court.
The Timberwolves’ suffocating defense stifled Murray and the Nuggets’ offense, limiting their scoring opportunities and forcing difficult shots. Despite Murray’s efforts to ignite his team, the Nuggets were unable to overcome the Timberwolves’ relentless pressure.
As the series heads to a decisive Game 7, both teams will look to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the Western Conference finals.