Despite a historic performance from Nikola Jokić, the Minnesota Timberwolves managed to defeat the Denver Nuggets in a thrilling double-overtime game reminiscent of their playoff series last year. Jokić, the reigning MVP, recorded a 61-point triple-double, setting a new NBA record for the most points in a triple-double and achieving a new career-high in scoring. However, Denver ultimately fell short, losing 140-139 in a crucial game for their playoff aspirations.
The game’s outcome was heavily influenced by a critical error from Russell Westbrook, who fouled Nickeil Alexander-Walker on a three-pointer as time expired, resulting in three free throws for the Timberwolves after an official review. Alexander-Walker calmly sank the first two free throws with just 0.1 seconds remaining, sealing the victory for Minnesota and leaving the Ball Arena crowd in disbelief.
Denver was missing key players Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., forcing Jokić to shoulder a heavier offensive burden against Rudy Gobert. Despite the increased scoring load, Jokić still managed to contribute 11 rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals in addition to his 61 points on 18-of-29 shooting. The Nuggets are now winless in games where Jokić scores 50 or more points.
The game marked only the third instance in NBA history of a player recording a 60-point triple-double, with James Harden and Luka Dončić being the other two players to achieve this feat. On the other side, Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves came alive in the fourth quarter, finishing with 34 points to complement Jokić’s historic performance.
With the win, the Timberwolves improve to 44-32, tying them with the Memphis Grizzlies for sixth place in the Western Conference playoff race. Meanwhile, the Nuggets find themselves in a tight battle for seeding, holding onto a slim half-game lead over the Los Angeles Lakers for third place.