The Minnesota Timberwolves are riding a wave of momentum into the Western Conference semifinals, having just completed a surprising sweep of the Phoenix Suns. The Suns were considered strong contenders, featuring a high-powered trio of Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker. Still, the Timberwolves cohesive team play and strategic execution left no room for doubt.

As the Timberwolves prepare to face the Denver Nuggets—who recently dispatched the Los Angeles Lakers in a tightly contested series—the stage is set for a riveting matchup. Denver, the defending NBA champions, are favored to win; however, they now face a Minnesota team that has consistently defied expectations and shown a knack for rising to the occasion. With both teams eyeing a spot in the conference finals, the upcoming series promises intense competition and potential surprises.

1. The Wolves Defense On The Perimeter

The Timberwolves’ perimeter defense has been a cornerstone of their playoff success, notably showcased in their series against the Phoenix Suns. Anthony Edwards, Mike Conley, and Jaden McDaniels not only managed to shut down the Suns’ star-studded lineup but also excelled in defending the pick and roll—a key element they’ll need against Denver’s dynamic duo of Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray. Murray, in particular, comes off a spectacular first-round performance where he sealed two games with winners against Anthony Davis, highlighting his clutch scoring ability.

This impressive defensive performance against such high-caliber opponents gives the Wolves a solid foundation to challenge the Nuggets offensive threats. With Porter Jr.’s sharpshooting and Murray’s playmaking and clutch scoring, the Timberwolves’ ability to continue their stringent perimeter defense will be crucial in their quest to upset the Nuggets.

2. A Big Interior Rotation To Go Against Jokic

Nikola Jokic proved to be an unstoppable force in the first round of the playoffs, dominating the Los Angeles Lakers who struggled to find an effective strategy to contain him. Jokic’s staggering averages of 28.2 points, 16.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game underscore his impact and versatility. However, the Minnesota Timberwolves might have the tools to offer more resistance.

During the regular season, Rudy Gobert faced difficulties when matched up directly against Jokic. Gobert allowed Jokic to score an average of 10.8 points per game on 61.7% shooting in their direct encounters, and overall, Jokic averaged 33.0 points per game against the Wolves. Despite these daunting statistics, Minnesota’s performance in the playoffs, particularly their defensive prowess displayed against the Suns, suggests they could adjust their approach.

The Timberwolves could choose to let Jokic have his points but focus intensely on shutting down the Nuggets’ perimeter scoring, a strategy that would rely on their disciplined defenders not to collapse too much into the paint and thus allow Denver’s shooters open looks. Alternatively, Minnesota could deploy a more aggressive approach, utilizing help from the weak side to disrupt Jokic’s rhythm and force him to make tough decisions under pressure.

3. Anthony Edwards Is Dominating The Playoffs

Anthony Edwards has truly risen to the occasion this postseason, elevating his game to become one of the standout performers, and arguably the best player, of the playoffs thus far. In the first round against the Suns, Edwards averaged a remarkable 31.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists over four games, demonstrating not just his scoring ability but his all-around impact on the court.

His scoring feats included dropping 33 points in Game 1, 36 points in Game 3, and a massive 40 points in Game 4, which clinched the series sweep for the Timberwolves. These aren’t just numbers; they’re statements of dominance, showcasing Edwards as a player who can take over games and demoralize opponents with his performance.

Edwards’ Player Efficiency Rating (PER) of 28.0 ranks him third in the playoffs, trailing only behind juggernauts like Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid. This statistic underscores his effectiveness and efficiency, highlighting his importance to the Timberwolves’ playoff run.

As Minnesota prepares to face the Denver Nuggets, Edwards’ continued dominance could be the x-factor that tips the scales in favor of the Timberwolves. His ability to perform at such a high level in the playoffs not only boosts his team’s confidence but also poses a significant challenge to any defense trying to contain him.

4. Past Playoff Matchup Experience

Last season, the Minnesota Timberwolves faced a tough playoff exit, finishing eighth in the regular season standings and falling to the Denver Nuggets in five games during the 2022-23 first-round series. This previous encounter, though disappointing, has served as a crucial learning experience for a roster that remains largely similar but has significantly improved since then. This season, having secured the second seed, the Timberwolves are clearly a more formidable and successful team, operating at a much higher level.

5. Everything Is Clicking For The Wolves

As the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare to face the Denver Nuggets, they do so with an air of confidence that could only be earned through stellar performance and definitive victories. Their recent sweep of the Phoenix Suns—a team that was widely regarded as a favorite due to the presence of star players like Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker—has significantly boosted their confidence. This victory wasn’t just a win; it was a statement that the Timberwolves are not just participants in the playoffs, but contenders.

Moreover, Anthony Edwards’ emergence as a bona fide superstar adds another layer of threat to Minnesota’s arsenal. His ability to dominate games and lead by example has transformed the Timberwolves into a team that others must prepare for seriously.