The Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets faced off in a pivotal Game 7 of the NBA Western Conference semifinals on May 20, 2024. Both teams had shown impressive performances throughout the series, with each team winning two games apiece. The stakes were high as the winner would advance to the Western Conference finals and face either the Los Angeles Lakers or Dallas Mavericks.
The Timberwolves entered Game 7 with a renewed sense of determination after their dominant 115-70 victory in Game 6. Anthony Edwards led the charge for Minnesota, scoring a game-high 27 points and providing lockdown defense against Denver's star players. Jaden McDaniels also contributed with 21 points, while Rudy Gobert, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Naz Reid combined for an impressive 38 rebounds.
The Nuggets were not without their own weapons. Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA MVP and a consistent force throughout the series, was expected to lead Denver's charge once again. Jamal Murray also posed a threat despite dealing with injuries to his elbow and calf muscle.
The game began at Ball Arena in Denver, with TNT broadcasting the action live for viewers across the country. The tension was palpable as both teams took to the court, each knowing that one mistake could mean elimination.
In the first quarter, Edwards continued his impressive play by scoring 10 points and providing solid defense against Jokic. McDaniels also contributed with 6 points and a key block on Murray. The Timberwolves ended the quarter with a narrow 25-24 lead.
The second quarter saw both teams trading baskets, but Minnesota managed to maintain their edge thanks to Edwards' relentless scoring and Towns' dominance in the paint. The Wolves went into halftime with a 53-49 lead.
The third quarter was a pivotal moment in the game as both teams fought for control. Edwards continued his strong play, while McDaniels provided crucial defense against Murray and Jokic. The Timberwolves extended their lead to double digits, but the Nuggets refused to back down. The quarter ended with Minnesota leading 81-70.
The fourth quarter was a tense affair as the Nuggets tried to mount a comeback. Edwards and McDaniels continued their strong play, while Towns provided crucial rebounds and defensive stops. Despite Denver's best efforts, the Timberwolves held on for a 98-90 victory.
The win marked a significant moment in Minnesota Timberwolves history as they eliminated the defending champions and advanced to the Western Conference finals. The team will now face either the Los Angeles Lakers or Dallas Mavericks, with a chance to make it to their first NBA Finals since 2004.
