The Denver Nuggets’ Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves ended in a 112-96 defeat and a late-game scuffle. The Timberwolves now lead the series 3-1. The match concluded with Nikola Jokić and Julius Randle ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Tempers Flare in Closing Seconds
With only seconds left on the clock and Minnesota holding a double-digit lead, Jaden McDaniels opted for an open layup instead of holding the ball. This decision sparked a confrontation with Nikola Jokić near the Timberwolves’ bench, resulting in a scrum between both teams.
As a result of the scuffle, Nikola Jokić and Timberwolves forward Julius Randle were ejected with 1.3 seconds remaining. It is unclear how the ejections will affect Jokić and Randle’s availability going forward.
Timberwolves Surge in Second Half
The Nuggets held a narrow lead throughout the second quarter. However, Minnesota, despite losing starters Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo in the first half, surged in the second half. Ayo Dosunmu had a career night, scoring 43 points off the bench.
Reaction to the Confrontation
Ayo Dosunmu seemed unconcerned about the scuffle postgame, stating, “I ride with them 100%, right or wrong.” Minnesota center Rudy Gobert also downplayed McDaniels’ late layup during a postgame interview on Inside the NBA.
“It’s the playoffs, man, you know. The game’s still going, he has the ball in his hands,” Gobert said. “Nothing much to be mad about.”
Looking Ahead to Game 5
The series now shifts back to Denver for Game 5 on Monday. The league may decide to hand down additional punishments after reviewing footage of the fight.