The Denver Nuggets’ comeback in their playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves has been remarkable, managing to secure three consecutive wins after initially falling behind 0-2. Their latest victory in Game 5, a decisive 112-97 win, featured a standout performance from Nikola Jokic, whose dominance was unstoppable and evidently uncontainable by any adjustments the Timberwolves attempted. Jokic’s ability to impact the game across various facets — from scoring and rebounding to facilitating for his teammates — was a key element for the Nuggets in their three consecutive wins.
As the series shifts back to Minnesota for Game 6, the stakes are incredibly high. The Nuggets are on the verge of completing a reverse sweep, a feat that would underscore their resilience and capability to perform under pressure. On the other hand, the Timberwolves face a must-win situation to extend the series and force a Game 7 back in Denver. The upcoming game is crucial for both teams, with the Nuggets aiming to capitalize on their current momentum and the Timberwolves needing to harness their home-court advantage to stay alive in the playoffs.
Bet on Nuggets vs. Timberwolves GM 6
DEN +2
MIN -2
Let’s look at the betting odds on both teams for this upcoming matchup.
Nuggets vs. Timberwolves best odds
| Nuggets Moneyline Odds | +116 @ Pinnacle |
| Timberwolves Moneyline Odds | -118 @ Betano |
| Over/Under | Over 204.5 points (-110) @ Sports Interaction Under 205.5 points (-110) @ PowerPlay |
| Spread | Timberwolves -1.5 (-110) @ Betano Nuggets +2.5 (-109) @ Pinnacle |
| Time/Date | May 16, 8:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | Broadcast: TSN Stream: NBA League Pass (How to watch the NBA in Canada?) |
Betting Denver Nuggets (7-3 SU, 5-5 ATS, 4-6 o/u)
Jokic’s commanding performance in Game 5, where he notched 40 points along with seven rebounds and 13 assists, was instrumental in leading the Nuggets to a critical victory. His ability to score 21 points in the second half particularly highlights his impact during key moments of the game. Jokic’s all-around gameplay continues to be a central force for the Nuggets, driving their success as they look to close out the series.
Aaron Gordon’s contribution with a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds further underscores the depth of the Nuggets’ roster, providing valuable support to Jokic’s efforts. Meanwhile, both Jamal Murray and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope chipped in with 16 points each. However, Michael Porter Jr.’s continued struggles in scoring, with only six points in 35 minutes, might be a concern for the Nuggets.
Heading into Game 6 in Minnesota, the pressure is on the Timberwolves to devise strategies that can somehow contain Jokic, who has proven to be nearly unstoppable when in form. The Nuggets, carried by Jokic’s recent performances and the solid contributions from his teammates, appear well-positioned to potentially close out the series if they maintain this level of play. Jokic’s dominance, if it continues, indeed suggests that the Nuggets are poised to secure a win in Game 6 and complete their comeback from a 0-2 deficit.
Betting Minnesota Timberwolves (6-3 SU, 6-3 ATS, 6-3 o/u)
In the crucial Game 5, the Timberwolves saw Karl-Anthony Towns step up as the leading scorer with 23 points, along with contributions of six rebounds and four assists. Despite his effort, the team faced challenges, particularly from Anthony Edwards, who struggled with his shooting, managing only 18 points on 5-of-15 shooting from the field. While he did contribute four rebounds and nine assists, his scoring inefficiency was a setback for the Timberwolves. Rudy Gobert, on the other hand, secured a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds, in addition to two steals and two blocks. The absence of Mike Conley due to injury compounded the team’s difficulties, impacting their overall game management and offensive flow. His veteran presence and playmaking abilities were sorely missed, leaving the Timberwolves lacking in orchestration against a tough Nuggets lineup.
Looking ahead to Game 6, the Timberwolves find themselves in a must-win situation to keep their playoff hopes alive. Edwards, in particular, needs to rebound from his poor shooting performance in Game 5. His ability to score efficiently and contribute significantly will be crucial for Minnesota’s success. The team will need him to harness his potential as a dynamic scorer and playmaker to force a Game 7.
For the Timberwolves to extend the series, it will be essential for Edwards to elevate his game, along with continued strong performances from Towns and Gobert. The team will need to address their shooting struggles and find ways to compensate for the absence of Conley if he misses Game 6 as well. The upcoming game will test the resilience and adaptability of the Timberwolves as they face elimination on their home court.
Nikola Jokic to record a triple-double
+212
Nuggets vs. Timberwolves injury concerns
Murray is questionable for Thursday’s Game 6 against the Timberwolves due to a left calf strain.
Conley is questionable for Thursday’s Game 6 against the Nuggets due to right Achilles soreness.
NBA betting trends
- The over is 3-0 in the last three games of the series.
- Denver is 3-1 ATS in its last four road games in these playoffs.
NBA player prop trends
- Reggie Jackson has recorded over 3.5 points in four of the last five games in this playoff series. His line is at -105 to record over 3.5 points against the Nuggets in Game 6.
- Michael Porter Jr. has recorded under 2.5 threes in three of his last five games in this series. His line is at -145 to record under 2.5 threes.
- Aaron Gordon has recorded over 4.5 assists in four of his last five games against the Timberwolves in this series. His line is at +125 to record over 4.5 assists.
Nuggets vs. Timberwolves predictions
- Jackson over 3.5 points: +100 (Sports Interaction). Jackson has easily cleared this line in four out of five games played in this series with totals of five, six, six, and six points. In the one game he did not clear, he went 1-for-6 and scored three points. Jackson is averaging 9.6 minutes per game in the series and is taking an average of four shot attempts.
- Over 204.5 total ooints: -110 (Sports Interaction). The last three games in this series have soared over this posted total, averaging 212.6 points during that span.
