Nikola Jokic Is Struggling and the Timberwolves Are Taking Over Game 3

The Denver Nuggets are getting torched in Minneapolis. With the series tied 1-1, Minnesota has built a commanding 43-25 halftime lead at Target Center, and it's not even close. The Timberwolves are shooting 49 percent from the field while Denver is ice cold at just 26 percent. Yeah, that's a problem.

Jokic Can't Find His Rhythm

The MVP is having a rough one. Nikola Jokic is just 2-for-9 from the field with 7 points at the half. He did drain a 24-foot three, but that's basically all Denver has to hang their hat on offensively. Jamal Murray isn't helping either, sitting at 2-for-7 with 6 points. When your two best guys are that quiet, you're not winning a playoff game. Denver's shooting splits are ugly across the board: 26 percent from the field, 25 percent from three, and the Timberwolves are picking them apart with just 5 turnovers forced so far.

Minnesota Is Clicking on All Cylinders

The Timberwolves are doing exactly what you need to do in the playoffs: they're locked in. Jaden McDaniels is leading the way with 11 points on an efficient 5-for-7 shooting. Anthony Edwards is adding 8 points and knocked down a 25-foot running pullup. Ayo Dosunmu is finishing plays at the rim, hitting a driving layup assisted by Donte DiVincenzo. The ball is moving, they're getting open looks, and they're making them.

Minnesota's shooting 49 percent from the field and 20 percent from three. More importantly, they're up 18 at the break with a 91.1 percent win probability according to ESPN Analytics. Denver is in serious trouble.

The Injury Report Could Matter Down the Line

The Nuggets are dealing with Aaron Gordon (calf) and Peyton Watson (hamstring) both out with estimated returns of April 25. Minnesota has Terrence Shannon Jr. and Jaylen Clark both sidelined with illness, also expected back by April 25. Game 4 is Saturday at 5:30 PM on ABC from Minneapolis, so Denver needs to figure something out fast.

Right now, though? The Nuggets look completely outmatched. Jokic and Murray need to find their shot, the defense has to tighten up, and Denver has to get back into this series before it gets away from them.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.