Nikola Jokic saves the Nuggets, who force a sixth game against the Timberwolves

The Denver Nuggets are still alive in the playoffs. The team from Colorado convincingly defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 125-113 in the fifth game of the series, narrowing the gap to 3-2 and forcing at least a sixth encounter.

The triumph came at a critical moment, after three consecutive losses and with the series on the line. Led by an imposing Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets delivered their most complete performance of the series to avoid elimination and regain momentum.

The Serbian once again dominated the game with a triple-double of 27 points, 16 assists, and 12 rebounds, his 23rd in playoff career. A number that ranks him third historically, only behind Magic Johnson and LeBron James.

Denver made the difference starting from the second quarter when they took control of the game thanks to their defense and ability to force turnovers. The home team led at halftime and maintained the momentum despite Minnesota's initial outside shooting accuracy. Before the break, Jokic electrified the Ball Arena with a deep three-pointer over Rudy Gobert, reinforcing the positive trend.

The start of the third quarter was decisive. An 18-8 run extended the lead to 19 points and left the Timberwolves heavily affected as they began to miss frequently. Denver seized the moment to run and widen the gap, with contributions spread across the offense, including a fast-break dunk by Spencer Jones that excited the crowd.

The lead kept growing to exceed 20 points by the end of the third period, with notable actions also from Christian Braun and Cameron Johnson. Minnesota already had 20 turnovers, an insurmountable burden to bear.

The final quarter was reduced to a formality. Although the Timberwolves momentarily closed the gap to ten points, the Nuggets controlled the pace and secured a crucial victory.

In the visiting team, Julius Randle led with 27 points and nine rebounds, supported by 18 from Ayo Dosunmu and 13 from Jaden McDaniels. Minnesota faces the series heavily impacted by the absence of Anthony Edwards, sidelined with a knee injury, and Donte DiVincenzo, out with an Achilles tendon rupture.

Accuracy for the Nuggets

Besides Jokic, Jamal Murray stood out with 24 points and Spencer Jones with 20, in a game where Denver shot 57% from the field. All this, additionally, was achieved without the presence of Aaron Gordon, a last-minute scratch due to calf issues.

Despite the victory, the situation remains challenging for Denver. The series now moves to Minnesota for the sixth game, where the Nuggets must win again to force a seventh encounter. A loss would mean their elimination in the first round, something that has not happened since 2022.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Nikola Jokic salva a unos Nuggets que fuerzan el sexto partido ante los Timberwolves