Round 1 Showdowns: Wolves triumph in LA, Jokic leads Nuggets to OT win
Minnesota Timberwolves steal the show in LA
The Minnesota Timberwolves kicked off their playoff series with a resounding 112-99 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on opener day, marking their first win on opposing terrain in this best-of-seven series.
“Our state of mind was good… but when they started playing with a lot of pressure and physics, we did not react immediately,” Lakers coach JJ Redick admitted after the game.
Our state of mind was good… but when they started playing with a lot of pressure and physics, we did not react immediately.– Lakers coach JJ Redick
The Wolves were led by Jaden McDaniels with 25 points, and Naz Reid contributing 23 points off the bench, including six of Minnesota’s record-breaking 21 three-pointers in the playoffs. Anthony Edwards finished with 22 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds.
Denver Nuggets edge LA Clippers in OT thriller
The Nuggets staved off a furious Clippers fightback to prevail 112-110 in overtime, thanks to Nikola Jokic’s triple-double performance.
Jokic, the reigning MVP, scored 29 points, 12 assists, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals, rallying the Nuggets from a 15-point deficit. Aaron Gordon chipped in 25 points as the Nuggets erased a double-digit lead to knot the score at 102 and force OT.
James Harden valiantly tallied 32 points and 11 assists for the Clippers, but it wasn’t enough to prevent defeat. Despite Nicolas Batum’s efforts (9 points, 2 rebounds), the Clippers failed to close out the game.
Knicks, Pacers also victorious on opener day
In other playoff action, the New York Knicks embarked on a 21-0 fourth-quarter run to defeat the Detroit Pistons 123-112. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 34 points.
The Indiana Pacers meanwhile outlasted the Milwaukee Bucks 117-98, despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 36-point, 12-rebound performance.
FAQs
Who won the Lakers vs. Timberwolves game?
The Minnesota Timberwolves won 112-99.
Did you know? Nikola Jokic became the first player in NBA history to post a triple-double in the first round of the playoffs with at least 25 points, 12 assists, and 9 rebounds.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the Wolves’ three-point shooting. They set a playoff record with 21 made threes against the Lakers.
Stay tuned for more playoff action!
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