The Denver Nuggets play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night in a crucial showdown from Ball Arena. The Nuggets come in with a 3-1 series lead but the tides could be changing after Minnesota avoided the sweep on Sunday night. Through eight meetings between the two on the season, including those in this series, the Timberwolves only have three wins, which should make it clear how this series seems like it'll end up at some point. A Denver win would obviously finish things, though a Minnesota win could completely change the series as they return home.
The Timberwolves were able to keep their season going to close out the weekend but they'll have their work cut out if they want to play another game in Minnesota. Down 3-1, they make their way to Denver, where they lost back-to-back games to open the series. They have a losing record in road games this season, which doesn't lead to much confidence, especially against one of the NBA's best home teams. The Timberwolves know that a win on Tuesday night would set the tone for a return home, though with nobody ever coming back from being down three games to none, the next few days will be a challenge.
The injuries have been mounting for this team over the last few weeks and it could be too much for them to overcome in this one. Naz Reid (wrist) and Jaden McDaniels (hand) have both yet to play this series and remain out, as does Kyle Anderson (eye). Jaylen Nowell (knee) is questionable and Minnesota's depth is sure to be tested in this one.
Minnesota @Timberwolves Status Report in advance of Game 5 at Denver:
QUESTIONABLE
Nowell – Left Knee TendinopathyOUT
Anderson – Left Eye Injury
McDaniels – Right Hand Fracture
Reid – Left Scaphoid Fracture— Timberwolves PR (@Twolves_PR) April 24, 2023
The Timberwolves have struggled at times but have seemed to find an avenue for success after playing their best basketball in the second-half on Sunday night. The offense leads the way, especially with their big men healthy, though their inability to generate second-chance points makes things challenging. With one of the most efficient offenses, they have the ability to find success on any given night. Anthony Edwards (32.3 ppg) has been on fire this series but hasn't seen a ton of consistent help, especially from the bench. Until the second-unit can find a scorer, there still will be too many times of trouble for the offense.