Why did Wolves beat Nuggets in Game 6?

Wolves close out Nuggets in Game 6 despite key absences

Minnesota forced a series-clinching win over Denver in Game 6 of their first-round matchup, topping the Nuggets 110-98 to advance. The decision matters because it wasn’t just a typical closeout—it came while the Timberwolves were missing multiple impact players and still found enough offense and defensive stops to pull away.

Injuries shaped the matchup

Minnesota entered Game 6 shorthanded. Reports tied the game plan to a different lineup, with the Timberwolves elevating players into roles against Denver’s offensive rhythm.

Notably:

• Ayo Dosunmu was ruled out for Game 6.
• Other Nuggets storylines included how the series swung under pressure and how both teams handled momentum.

What swung the game

Jaden McDaniels played a central role on both ends. He scored 32 points with 10 rebounds, a kind of two-way output that helped Minnesota compete for possessions and keep the game from turning into a Denver shooting contest.

Terrence Shannon Jr. also produced in a high-leverage spot, scoring 24 points while starting in a key moment.

Why it’s important for Round 2

Advancing sets Minnesota up for the Western Conference semifinals against San Antonio. That matchup now matters even more because the Timberwolves proved they can win a roadblock game without relying on a full-strength rotation.

The series also included heated moments, but Game 6 ultimately belonged to Minnesota’s ability to translate intensity into a sustained lead—then defend well enough to prevent Denver from making the comeback realistic.

For Denver, the loss ends their season earlier than expected and raises the question of whether the supporting cast can be reshaped or whether defensive gaps must be addressed before the next playoffs.