On May 2, 2021, the Denver Nuggets faced off against the Minnesota Timberwolves in a highly anticipated Game 7 showdown. The game was part of the NBA Play-In Tournament, with both teams vying for a spot in the playoffs.
The Nuggets came into the game as the favorites, boasting a strong roster led by MVP candidate Nikola Jokic. The Timberwolves, on the other hand, were considered underdogs but had shown resilience throughout the series.
From the opening tip-off, it was clear that this game would be a closely contested battle. Both teams traded baskets and defensive stops throughout the game, with neither team able to gain a significant advantage.
The Minnesota Timberwolves shocked the world on Thursday night when they absolutely crushed the Denver Nuggets by 45 points. There was no way around it, the Nuggets got destroyed, and Nikola Jokic agreed.
Whenever the game begins, Sunday will be exactly 20 years since the only previous time the Timberwolves were in a playoff Game 7. The Wolves beat the Sacramento Kings on May 19, 2004, to advance to the Western Conference finals — where they ended up losing to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Thursday’s big win against Denver snapped a three-game losing streak for the Timberwolves. Minnesota won the first two games of the series before Denver — the defending NBA champions — won the next three.
Fans, league observers and maybe even the Wolves themselves wondered if they would ever find themselves again. Their offense was grounded, the Nuggets were outhustling them and Nikola Jokic was barely breaking a sweat against their once-intimidating defense.
But that defense came roaring back to force just the second Game 7 in franchise history on Sunday in Denver. It will be 20 years to the day the Wolves won their only other Game 7 in franchise history, at home against Sacramento in the second round in 2004.
The visiting team won the first four games of the series, with Denver erasing a 2-0 deficit. Since then, the Nuggets and Timberwolves have traded home wins. Minnesota staved off elimination Thursday at Target Center with a 115-70 blowout that holds the distinction of being the Nuggets’ worst playoff loss in franchise history by point margin.
In contrast, the Nuggets struggled to keep up with the pace set by their opponents. Their offense faltered under pressure from the Timberwolves' defense, leading to numerous turnovers and missed shots. Defensively, they were unable to contain the scoring prowess of their opponents, allowing easy baskets and second-chance opportunities.
Overall, this game serves as a stark reminder of the importance of skill, strategy, and teamwork in basketball. The Timberwolves' dominant performance showcases what can be achieved through hard work and dedication on the court.
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