2023 NBA: Nuggets Edge Timberwolves in Game 1 of Western Conference Semis

Jokic, Smith Lead Denver to 112-109 Victory

Denver, CO - The Denver Nuggets took the first game of their Western Conference semifinals series against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night, winning 112-109. Nikola Jokic led the way for Denver with 32 points, 18 rebounds, and 9 assists, while Jamal Murray added 26 points and Aaron Gordon chipped in with 18.

Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 28 points and 10 rebounds, while Anthony Edwards added 26 points and D'Angelo Russell had 18. The Timberwolves led by 10 points with less than five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter but the Nuggets rallied back to steal the victory.

The Nuggets were able to win the game by shooting the ball better than the Timberwolves, making 47.4% of their shots to Minnesota's 42.4%. Denver also outrebounded Minnesota 46-38 and had fewer turnovers, 9-13.

The Nuggets will host the Timberwolves in Game 2 of the series on Monday night. Denver is now a 1-point favorite to win the series according to DraftKings Sportsbook.