Nuggets beat Timberwolves 116-105 in Game 1 after 42 fouls

The Denver Nuggets won Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a score of 116-105. This game had 42 fouls called, showing how physical it was.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

Physicality and Punitive Fouls Define Series Opener

Denver Nuggets secured a 116-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in a hard-fought Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. The contest, marked by an elevated level of physicality, saw 42 fouls called, including a flagrant foul on Minnesota's Jaden McDaniels and a technical assessed to Nuggets coach David Adelman.

The Nuggets extended their winning streak to 13 games, their last loss occurring on March 18th.

Jamal Murray was the offensive linchpin for Denver, pouring in 30 points and exhibiting perfect 16-of-16 shooting from the free-throw line. His performance, coupled with a triple-double from Nikola Jokic – who recorded 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists – proved too much for the Timberwolves.

Edwards' Knee and Early Foul Trouble Contribute to Minnesota's Struggles

Despite Anthony Edwards managing 22 points on 7-of-19 shooting, his output was notably impacted by a sore right knee. The Timberwolves also saw key contributions from Rudy Gobert, who managed 17 points and 10 rebounds. However, early foul trouble for players like Aaron Gordon, who still contributed 17 points and 8 rebounds, hampered Minnesota's ability to establish a consistent rhythm.

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The game's aggressive nature was evident from the first quarter, featuring two replay challenges and multiple technical fouls.

Bench Contributions and Game Outlook

Denver's bench provided necessary support, with Cameron Johnson and Christian Braun adding 12 points each. The return of forward Spencer Jones from injury also bolstered the Nuggets' rotation, despite limited minutes.

The series continues with Game 2 scheduled for Monday night.

Contextual Notes

The matchup between the Timberwolves and Nuggets represents the third playoff series between these two teams in four seasons. This opening game underscored the anticipation surrounding the series, highlighted by its intense and often chippy nature. Jokic, already a three-time MVP, continues to etch his name in playoff records, inching closer to surpassing LeBron James for second-most playoff triple-doubles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the Denver Nuggets win Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 19, 2026?
The Denver Nuggets won Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a score of 116-105. Jamal Murray scored 30 points and Nikola Jokic had a triple-double with 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists.
Q: Why was Game 1 between the Nuggets and Timberwolves so physical?
Game 1 had 42 fouls called, including a flagrant foul on Jaden McDaniels and a technical foul on David Adelman. This high number of fouls showed the aggressive nature of the game.
Q: What happened with Anthony Edwards in Game 1?
Anthony Edwards scored 22 points but was affected by a sore right knee. He shot 7-of-19 from the field.
Q: When is Game 2 of the Timberwolves and Nuggets playoff series?
Game 2 of the playoff series between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets is scheduled for Monday night.
Q: What is the Nuggets' current winning streak after Game 1?
The Denver Nuggets extended their winning streak to 13 games after winning Game 1. Their last loss was on March 18th.