Denver Nuggets Defeat Timberwolves 112-100
The Denver Nuggets won their third-consecutive game tonight, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves by a score of 112-100.
The Denver Nuggets came off an impressive victory against the Houston Rockets, which improved their record to 10-14, just a couple games out of a playoff spot. Moreover, the Denver Nuggets defeated this same Timberwolves team just a few days ago to start their current win streak. After a two game home stand, the Denver Nuggets embarked on a two game road trip, with Minnesota being their first stop. In tonight’s matchup, the Denver Nuggets were without star rookie point guard Emmanuel Mudiay.
Next: Emmanuel Mudiay at Risk to Miss Extensive Time
With Emmanuel Mudiay sidelined due to an ankle sprain, Jameer Nelson earned a start against the Timberwolves; moreover, Joffrey Lauvergne started at center for the Denver Nuggets. In addition to Nelson and Lauvergne, Gary Harris, Danilo Gallinari, and Kenneth Faried each earned their usual starts. The Denver Nuggets utilized their bench players in this matchup, with four players registering over 20 minutes played in the game.
Kenneth Faried led the Denver Nuggets in points (19) and rebounds (10), posting a solid double-double on the night. Also, Randy Foye flashed some range on the night, hitting five of six shots from beyond the arc (7-9 FGM overall). Will Barton registered a team-high 31 minutes on the night, scoring 14 points with seven rebounds and five assists. The Denver Nuggets looked effective tonight, but they played a weaker opponent in the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Karl-Anthony Towns, Andrew Wiggins, and Zach LaVine led the way for the Timberwolves, posting 18, 23 and 20 points, respectively. Kevin Garnett earned a start against the Denver Nuggets, but he only played 13 minutes on the night, giving Gorgui Dieng some added minutes on the night. Also, Kevin Martin struggled from the floor against the Denver Nuggets, hitting just one of his eights shots for two points in the contest.
Next: Emmanuel Mudiay at Risk to Miss Extensive Time
With the win against the Timberwolves, the Denver Nuggets improved their record to 11-14, and they continue their road trip against the Utah Jazz on Friday. The Denver Nuggets look to continue their winning ways in their final game of the two-game road trip. Jameer Nelson likely starts again on Friday, due to Mudiay’s ankle injury. After Friday’s game against the Jazz, the Denver Nuggets return home for two games against the Pelicans and Lakers.