NBA Play-offs: Jokic-Inspired Nuggets Win to Peg Back Timberwolves

The Denver Nuggets, reigning NBA champions, secured a decisive 117-90 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, narrowing the series gap to 2-1 in the Western Conference semi-finals.

Nikola Jokic, fresh from clinching his third MVP title, led the charge with a stellar 24-point game, complemented by 14 rebounds and nine assists. Jamal Murray matched Jokic’s scoring with 24 points of his own.

Jokic attributed the win to a simplified, more assertive approach on the court. The Nuggets’ cohesive effort was evident as all starting players hit double figures in scoring, at one point leading by a substantial 34 points.

The series continues with game four on Monday in Minneapolis, where the Nuggets aim to even the score.

Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers staved off a 3-0 series deficit in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, edging out the New York Knicks 111-106. Tyrese Haliburton was instrumental in the Pacers’ win, dropping 35 points, while Andrew Nembhard’s clutch three-pointer with just seconds remaining sealed the deal for Indiana.

Haliburton emphasized the urgency of their situation, acknowledging the dire consequences of a 3-0 deficit and the team’s determination to fight back.

Donte DiVincenzo led the Knicks with 35 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Pacers’ resolve. Indiana now looks to level the series in game four on their home court this Sunday.

Reported By BBC Sports