NBA Playoffs 2026: Minnesota shocks Jokic's Nuggets

What started as a bet on roster depth turned into a monumental performance. Ayo Dosunmu, who arrived in February from Chicago, took on a completely different role than expected and led the Minnesota Timberwolves to a crucial 112-96 victory over the Denver Nuggets in the 2026 NBA Playoffs. The result puts the series at 3-1 with Minnesota just one win away from advancing.

The circumstances demanded stepping up. Injuries to Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo left a void that Dosunmu filled with a historic performance coming off the bench.

Dosunmu scored 43 points, a career-best, in a near-perfect night. He made 13 of 17 field goals, including a flawless 5 for 5 from beyond the arc, and added 12 free throws in 42 minutes, his highest workload of the season.

His performance marks the highest scoring output by a reserve player in playoffs in the last 50 years, a feat that places him in an unusual dimension for a player of his profile.

“Ayo was simply spectacular,” summarized coach Chris Finch. “One play after another.”

Total confidence from the bench

Dosunmu's impact did not surprise his team, where his coach made it clear the commitment was unwavering even amid fatigue.

“He moves fast. He is an incredible finisher. Scores decisive baskets,” explained Finch. “He's fearless. I was just going to push him to the limit until he wore out.”

The player himself also reflected on the moment with perspective: “I know it sounds like a cliché, but I can't and won't take this moment for granted, because I understand how long and difficult it is to get here.”

Final tension and ejections

The game ended with a tense moment in the final seconds. After a meaningless layup by Jaden McDaniels with 2.1 seconds left, Nikola Jokic reacted angrily and confronted him near the bench, leading to his ejection along with Julius Randle.

In strictly sporting terms, Jamal Murray led Denver with 30 points, while Jokic nearly had a triple-double with 24 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists. However, the team struggled with their outside shooting, going 6 for 27 on three-pointers, and had a notable drop in the second half, where Jokic and Murray combined to shoot 6 for 24.

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