Nuggets-Timberwolves series is a war of attrition — and both teams are losing the battle
Whoever moves on likely won't have much left to challenge the best in the West.
Three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets, one of the few legitimate title contenders, are on the brink of elimination in the first round of these playoffs. They trail the Minnesota Timberwolves, another championship contender, 3-1 in a best-of-seven set. Except, the Wolves lost both Anthony Edwards (left knee) and Donte DiVincenzo (right Achilles) to injury over the course of Saturday’s 112-96 win .
Which begs the question: Do either of these teams have what it takes to win a title? Either team would have to, most likely, march through the San Antonio Spurs in the second round and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference finals, just for the opportunity to compete in the NBA Finals for a title. It is no easy road to hoe.
What is required for the Nuggets? Beating these Wolves three times in a row, which is possible, especially in the absence of Edwards. He is expected to miss multiple weeks after hyperextending his left knee in the third quarter of Saturday’s victory.
Denver hosts Games 5 and 7. It will necessitate wins in both and a single road win over the depleted Wolves. Denver will be favored in each of the remaining matchups.