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Apr 24, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Timberwolves seize 2-1 playoff edge over Nuggets while Hawks topple Knicks

AI Summary
The Minnesota Timberwolves clinched a 2-1 series lead over the Denver Nuggets with a 113-96 win in Game 3, highlighted by Jaden McDaniels' double‑double and a franchise‑record low first‑quarter score allowed. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks edged the New York Knicks 109-108 thanks to CJ McCollum’s clutch jumper, pushing the series to 2-1 as well.

Timberwolves dominate Game 3 to seize 2-1 lead over Nuggets

Jaden McDaniels led Minnesota with a double‑double (20 points, 10 rebounds) as the Timberwolves forced a 113‑96 victory, snapping Denver’s momentum. Bench scorer Ayo Dosunmu added 25 points and nine assists, while Donte DiVincenzo contributed 15 points and four steals. The Wolves set a postseason franchise record by limiting the Nuggets to just 11 points in the opening quarter.

Denver’s star Nikola Jokic managed 27 points and 15 rebounds, but the team shot a dismal 7‑for‑26 from the floor. Jamal Murray added 16 points on 5‑for‑17 shooting, and the Nuggets missed Aaron Gordon with a calf injury.

Hawks clinch 109-108 victory to level series with Knicks

In the Eastern Conference, CJ McCollum delivered a game‑winning fadeaway with 12.5 seconds left, giving the Atlanta Hawks a 109‑108 win over the New York Knicks. McCollum finished with 23 points, while teammate Jalen Johnson led Atlanta with 24 points. Knicks’ OG Anunoby posted a team‑high 29 points, but it wasn’t enough.

The Hawks built an 18‑point first‑half lead, and despite a late Knicks rally, a crucial defensive play by Jonathan Kuminga sealed the victory.

Numbers that tell the story: points, rebounds, and historic defensive stats

  • Timberwolves held the Nuggets to 11 points in Q1 – a postseason low for Minnesota.
  • Overall shooting: Denver 7‑for‑26 (27%); Minnesota 45‑for‑92 (49%).
  • Hawks outscored Knicks 58‑45 in the first half.
  • Combined series totals after Game 3: Timberwolves 213‑202, Hawks 209‑207.
  • Key individual performances: McDaniels (20/10), Dosunmu (25), McCollum (23), Anunoby (29).

Shifts in momentum: how the wins reshape playoff dynamics

Both series now sit at 2‑1, giving the home teams a strategic edge. Minnesota’s defensive intensity forces Denver to adjust its offensive schemes, especially around Jokic’s playmaking. Atlanta’s ability to close games under pressure restores confidence after a shaky Game 2, while New York must address late‑game execution.

In the West, the Nuggets will need to rediscover shooting rhythm and possibly re‑insert Gordon to restore front‑court energy. In the East, the Knicks face a critical Game 4 on the road, where defensive lapses could be costly.

Future outlook: what to expect in the next games

Game 4 in Denver (Saturday) will test whether the Nuggets can rebound offensively; a win would even the series and shift momentum back to Colorado. Minnesota will likely continue its aggressive perimeter defense, aiming to keep Denver’s shooting below 35%.

Game 4 in Atlanta (Saturday) offers the Hawks a chance to extend their lead. If the Knicks can force a Game 5, New York’s veteran core, led by Jalen Brunson, will need to capitalize on any defensive mismatches.