Minnesota handed Denver a crushing defeat in last season’s NBA playoffs, and they did the same again this evening. The Timberwolves brutally ended Colorado’s winning streak and, in the process, revived memories of last season’s playoff trauma by defeating Nikola Joki\u0107 and company 133-104 (40-31, 31-29, 38-31, 24-13) at their “Target Center.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For reasons unknown, when Anthony Edwards faces off against the three-time MVP and 2023 champion, he is particularly inspired. And even more than that. This time, he finished with 34 points and nine assists. He shot 14\/23 from the field, 3\/8 from three-point range, and 3\/4 from the free-throw line. Alongside him, Julius Randle was excellent, contributing 21 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, while Rudy Gobert recorded a double-double with 14 points and 14 rebounds. The French center had often struggled in matchups with Joki\u0107 in the past, but not in this game. This time, he showed all his best qualities, particularly his defense, which is why he is considered one of the best defenders in recent years. He didn\u2019t let the towering Sombor native do whatever he wanted and kept him somewhat under control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We say “somewhat” because Joki\u0107 still finished the game with 20 points and 11 assists. He also had good shooting percentages, making 9\/13 from the field and 2\/4 from three. However, it must be noted that he wasn’t as aggressive offensively as usual. This is reflected in his three rebounds. Alongside him, Jamal Murray deserves a mention for his 25 points and five assists. Aaron Gordon and Russell Westbrook each contributed 13 points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n