Murray’s Perfect Night and Jokic’s Triple-Double Power Nuggets Past Timberwolves in Playoff Opener

Denver Nuggets fans had plenty to cheer about as their team opened the 2026 NBA playoffs with a commanding 116-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. In a game marked by physical play and playoff intensity, Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic delivered signature performances that set the tone for the first-round series.

Jamal Murray led all scorers with 30 points, making an indelible mark at the free-throw line. The Nuggets guard was a perfect 16-for-16 on free throws, a feat that not only anchored Denver’s offense but also helped the team stave off several Timberwolves rallies. Murray’s ability to draw contact and convert consistently proved crucial in a matchup where every possession was contested.

While Murray shouldered the scoring load, Nikola Jokic orchestrated the Nuggets’ attack with his trademark versatility. Jokic notched a triple-double, demonstrating why he remains one of the league’s most impactful players. His all-around playmaking, rebounding, and scoring allowed Denver to control the tempo and keep Minnesota’s defense off-balance throughout the night.

Several key moments defined the opener:

• Murray’s flawless free-throw performance (16-16) provided an offensive backbone for Denver.
• Jokic’s triple-double underscored his MVP-level influence on both ends of the floor.
• The Timberwolves stayed within striking distance for much of the night but struggled to contain Denver’s stars down the stretch.

Both teams brought a physical edge, setting the stage for what promises to be a hard-fought series. The Timberwolves’ defense pressured Denver in stretches, but the Nuggets’ ability to generate points from the charity stripe and execute in half-court sets proved decisive. With this win, Denver not only takes a 1-0 series lead but also sends a message about their postseason readiness.

As the series progresses, all eyes will be on whether Minnesota can adjust defensively to slow Murray’s penetration and whether Jokic can maintain his triple-double pace against intensified playoff defenses.