The first round of the playoffs saw two handily won series from Minnesota and Denver. Now, the Timberwolves will face the defending champion, Denver Nuggets, for the second year in a row. Do the Timberwolves have what it takes to eliminate the Nuggets this time? Read and find out who will make the Western Conference Finals!
The Nuggets trailed every single game in the series against the Lakers but still managed to win four of fives matchups. This was in large part due to Nikola Jokic receiving help from Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. In order to beat the Timberwolves, Murray and Porter Jr must make their presence known.
So far in the playoffs, Jamal Murray has scored 43 4th quarter points, which is the top 5 in the playoffs. While Michael Porter Jr has been efficient, shooting at least 50% in every game of the first round. If Murray is clutch and Porter Jr is efficient, then Minnesota may have their hands full on defense.
For Minnesota to win this series, they must be active on the glass. The Timberwolves have averaged 46.3 rebounds in the playoffs, which leads all teams. It is vital for the Timberwolves to limit Nikola Jokic as a rebounder. Jokic has recorded three games with 20 rebounds, which has led to more offensive opportunities for Denver. To limit the flow of Jokic running the offense, Minnesota must control the possessions.
The biggest question in this series is how consistent Minnesota’s offense will be. The Timberwolves are number 1 in defense rating but they don’t crack the top 15 on the offensive side. However, if any player out of Rudy Gobert, Mike Conley, Jaden McDaniels or Karl Anthony Towns, can step up then, the offense might be good enough to assist the strong defense.
The Timberwolves have the defensive personnel in Edwards, McDaniels and Gobert that can limit the Nuggets offense. Anthony Edwards should also be a scoring threat and have himself a good series. However, the Nuggets have the best player in Nikola Jokić and the better weapons. It is also easier to bet on Jamal Murray as a second option than anyone else on the Timberwolves.
The Nuggets have the more experienced roster and coach in this series and should find enough offense to get past this pestering Minnesota defense. The Nuggets should come out of this series that goes the distance and head to the Western Conference Finals.
Prediction: Nuggets in 7
