Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray make statement in Game 1 win vs. Timberwolves

Since last offseason, the general consensus has been that the Denver Nuggets cannot contend for another championship unless their supporting cast rises to the occasion. That opinion still holds true in the beginning of the 2026 NBA playoffs, but the foundational pieces must also excel if this squad is going to survive the Minnesota Timberwolves, San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray met the challenge in Game 1.

The three-time MVP-winning center recorded a triple-double in Saturday’s 116-105 win over the Wolves, posting 25 points on 11-of-19 shooting with 13 rebounds and 11 assists. Denver’s All-Star guard scored a game-high 30 points on 7-of-22 shooting from the field and 16-of-16 shooting from the free-throw line, while also totaling seven dimes and five boards.

Jokic and Murray each weathered struggles during this Western Conference clash — the former committed five turnovers and the latter was inefficient from the floor — but they boosted the Nuggets to a much-needed victory inside Ball Arena. This duo led the franchise to its first NBA title in 2023 and helped establish a winning culture in The Mile High City. The next step is building a dynasty.

Denver has to prove it has the depth and defensive ability to reach the pinnacle once again. Saturday’s contest produced the desired outcome, but the Nuggets still have plenty to work on heading into Game 2. They cannot bank on attempting 33 free throws moving forward, and Anthony Edwards will probably shoot better than 36.8 percent on most nights. But there are positive things the squad can potentially expand on throughout the series.

Aaron Gordon notched 17 points and eight boards, Christian Braun was 2-of-3 from 3-point range and Spencer Jones scored five points in nine minutes. Though, when considering the danger the Timberwolves present, it is imperative that Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray continue to leave their mark on the court.

Game 2 tips off on Monday at 10:30 p.m. ET.

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