The Minnesota Timberwolves are effectively neutralizing the Denver Nuggets' offense with a defensive performance reminiscent of a superhero battle in the NBA playoffs.

By the Numbers
  • The Wolves limited the Nuggets to 35 points in the first half of Game 2, the second-lowest in franchise history.
  • Denver had a 76.1 offensive rating in the first half, well below their usual performance with Jokic in the lineup.
  • Minnesota contained the league's fifth-best offensive team to just 80 points by the end of the game.
  • Murray is shooting 26% from the field in the series due to the Wolves' relentless pressure.
Yes, But

The absence of Rudy Gobert didn't hinder the Timberwolves' defensive dominance against the Nuggets.

State of Play
  • The Timberwolves are disrupting the Nuggets' offense with on-ball pressure and help-side recovery.
  • Size, length, and speed from Minnesota's defense have challenged Denver's typical advantage in physicality.
What's Next

As the series progresses, the Nuggets will need to adjust their game plan to counter the Timberwolves' defensive tactics.

Bottom Line

The Timberwolves' defensive strategy, focused on size, length, and speed, has positioned them as a formidable contender in the playoffs, potentially leading them to their first Conference Finals in two decades.