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Denver (1-1) at Minnesota (1-1)
- When: Apr 23 2026, 9:30 PM
- Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- TV: Amazon Prime Video
Denver vs Minnesota Preview & Prediction
Spread: Denver -2.0
Moneyline: Denver (-135)
Total: 234.0
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview
This series just turned into must-watch TV. Minnesota didn’t just even things up, they started talking like they already solved Denver. Jaden McDaniels fired the first shot, questioning Denver’s defense, and now the pressure shifts to the Timberwolves to back it up at home.
The reality is a bit more complicated. Anthony Edwards is still producing, averaging 26 points per game, but the efficiency is not there. Shooting under 40 percent from the field and struggling from deep is not the version of Edwards that usually takes over playoff games. If he finds his rhythm, this offense becomes far more dangerous.
Julius Randle has been steady with 20 points per game, and McDaniels is contributing across the board. Add in timely shooting from Donte DiVincenzo, and Minnesota has enough firepower to pressure Denver, especially at home where they were strong all season.
The key for Minnesota is pace and confidence. If they keep attacking and avoid settling for inefficient shots, they can control stretches of this game. But if Edwards continues to struggle with shot selection, the offense can stall quickly.
Timberwolves Prop Pick: Anthony Edwards under 27.5 points
Until his efficiency improves, expecting a massive scoring night carries risk against a disciplined defense.
Denver Nuggets Betting Preview
Denver is not fazed by the noise. This is a team that has been through playoff battles before, and one loss is not going to shake them. The response in Game 3 is what matters.
Nikola Jokic continues to be the most reliable presence on the floor, averaging 24.5 points, 14 rebounds, and 9.5 assists in the series. He controls tempo, creates opportunities, and punishes mistakes. Even when Minnesota tries to speed things up, Jokic slows it back down and makes the right play.
Jamal Murray has been productive with 30 points per game, though his shooting has been inconsistent. His ability to get to the line has helped offset those struggles, keeping Denver’s offense efficient even when shots are not falling.
The Nuggets also have key contributions from role players like Christian Braun, who has been efficient from three-point range. That depth gives Denver flexibility and balance, especially in tight games.
Denver’s approach is simple. Stay composed, execute offensively, and let their experience take over late. They do not need to dominate every quarter, just win the important moments.
Nuggets Prop Pick: Nikola Jokic under 26.5 points
With his playmaking role and Minnesota’s focus on limiting scoring, Jokic may distribute more than dominate as a scorer.
NBA Final Score & Expert Prediction
Denver as a slight favorite at -2.0 reflects how evenly matched this series is. Minnesota has energy and home-court advantage, but Denver has the experience and the best player on the floor.
The total at 234.0 is high, and that leans toward the under. Both teams have shown stretches of inefficient offense, and playoff intensity typically tightens scoring opportunities.
This feels like a close game throughout, but Denver’s composure and ability to execute late gives them the edge.
Final Score: Nuggets 116, Timberwolves 111
Lean: Denver -2.0
Total: Under 234.0
- NBA Playoffs Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
