In a thrilling encounter in Denver, Nickeil Alexander-Walker emerged as the hero by sinking two out of three free throws with just 0.1 seconds left on the clock, enabling the Minnesota Timberwolves to edge out the Denver Nuggets 140-139 in an intense double overtime on Tuesday night.
The closing moments of the game were a rollercoaster, with Russell Westbrook making a crucial steal, missing a layup, and in the aftermath, fouling Alexander-Walker near the corner. The Timberwolves guard coolly executed two free throws and strategically missed the third to give his team the vital victory.
Anthony Edwards was pivotal for Minnesota, topping the scoring chart with 34 points. Meanwhile, Denver’s Nikola Jokic had a night to remember, notching a career-high 61 points, which is the highest in the NBA this season. Jokic also recorded a triple-double with 10 rebounds and 10 assists, marking it as the third 60-point triple-double in league history. Demonstrating iron will, he played every second of the game post-halftime.
The game saw a playoff-like atmosphere, complete with 21 lead changes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats throughout. The Timberwolves continue their stronghold over the Nuggets, claiming six consecutive wins against them, including playoff games.
The Timberwolves entered this contest without Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo, who received suspensions following an on-court tussle during their matchup with the Detroit Pistons over the weekend. On the other side, Denver was without Jamal Murray, sidelined due to a hamstring issue, and Michael Porter Jr., who missed the game for personal reasons.
In terms of impact players, the Timberwolves’ bench proved vital, outscoring Nuggets’ reserves 40-14. Jokic delivered an exceptional shooting performance, finishing 18 of 29 from the field, including six successful shots from beyond the arc.
A moment of high drama unfolded towards the second overtime’s conclusion when Jaden McDaniels fouled Jokic during a jump ball situation. Jokic succeeded in one of his free throws, nudging Denver momentarily ahead with a 139-138 lead. However, the night belonged to the Timberwolves.
The result affected the Nuggets’ impressive home record slightly, as they now stand at 18-3 when tied or leading after the first quarter. They had initially stormed to a 16-point lead during the opening quarter.
Looking ahead, Denver is set to host San Antonio on Wednesday, while Minnesota will face Brooklyn on Thursday.