Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves is back on the floor Monday night, and this time, the stakes feel even bigger. After a gut-punch Game 1 loss that Minnesota largely brought on themselves, the Timberwolves head into Ball Arena needing a win to keep this series alive in any meaningful sense. Denver won 116–105 on Saturday behind Jamal Murray’s 30 points and a Nikola Jokic triple-double, but Minnesota led by 12 in the first quarter – making the final score feel far more lopsided than the game actually was. Game 2 tips off Monday, April 20, at 9:30 PM CDT on NBC and Peacock.
How Game 1 Was Won and Lost
The Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Game 1 told a story of two halves – and one devastating third quarter. Minnesota came out sharp, pushing tempo and forcing Jokic to log early miles. Then the Wolves stalled. The ball stopped moving. The pace died. Denver went on a 17–2 run that essentially decided the game before the fourth quarter even began.
Officiating added to Minnesota’s frustrations. Jamal Murray shot 16 free throws on his own, nearly matching Minnesota’s entire team total of 19. A controversial flagrant foul on Jaden McDaniels converted a well-defended miss into three Nuggets points. Anthony Edwards also appeared less than 100 percent on his knee, limiting his explosiveness and impact. Still, the Wolves had opportunities – and let them slip.
Three Keys for Minnesota in Game 2
The Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Game 2 rematch hinges on whether Minnesota can correct the mistakes that cost them Saturday.
Push the pace relentlessly. Jokic looked winded in the first quarter when Minnesota was flying. The Wolves are younger and more athletic – they must weaponize that advantage for all 48 minutes, not just 12. Every rebound should start a sprint. Every stop should fuel a transition.
Move the ball like a team. Donte DiVincenzo went 4-for-4 from three in the first quarter – and was then largely ignored because the offense turned static. Minnesota needs drive-and-kick, swing-swing, attack-the-closeout basketball. When the ball moves, the Wolves are dangerous. When it sticks, they are beatable.
Anthony Edwards must impose himself. This is the hardest ask, because it is also the most necessary. The Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves series will not be won by a half-healthy Ant drifting through possessions. He needs to attack downhill, draw defenders, and make Denver pay. Hurt or not, this is his moment to define what kind of playoff star he is going to be.
Denver’s Position: Confident, But Cautious
The Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves series fits Denver’s preferred style perfectly once it slows down. Jokic had 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists in Game 1 almost on autopilot in the second half. Murray was relentless. Cam Johnson provided perimeter spacing. The Nuggets are riding a 13-game winning streak and have the comfort of home court.
That said, Denver cannot take a desperate Timberwolves team lightly. Minnesota showed in the first quarter exactly what they are capable of when they play with urgency. If Rudy Gobert is dominant, Naz Reid comes alive off the bench, and Edwards attacks with conviction, this game is absolutely winnable for the Wolves.
FAQs
Q: What time does Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Game 2 start?
A: Game 2 between Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves will be played at 9.30 pm CDT on Monday 20 th April, 2026 at Ball arena in Denver, Colorado. The game airs on NBC and Peacock.
Q: Is Anthony Edwards playing in Game 2?
A: Yes, he has been cleared to play despite knee discomfort.
Q: What was the Game 1 score?
A: Denver won 116–105. Murray had 30 points, Jokic posted a triple-double.
Q: Who has the edge in Game 2?
A: Denver at home, but a motivated Minnesota team can steal it with the right game plan.
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