NBA Preseason: Jokic Scores 14 in Fiery Duel with Gobert as Wolves Defeat Nuggets Despite Edwards’ Absence

On October 5 (Beijing Time), the NBA preseason continued with the Minnesota Timberwolves defeating the defending champions Denver Nuggets 126–116, marking a strong start to their exhibition campaign. Despite missing key players Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and Mike Conley, the Wolves showcased impressive depth and composure throughout the game. The Nuggets played their starters only through the first half. Nikola Jokic notched 14 points before a fiery exchange of elbows with Rudy Gobert in the opening quarter—a tense moment that quickly ended with mutual smiles and a sportsmanlike embrace. Newcomer Jonas Valančiūnas added 6 points off the bench but struggled with foul trouble and turnovers. The Timberwolves led by as many as 19 points, and although Denver’s reserves briefly cut the deficit to single digits in the final quarter, Minnesota held firm to seal the win. Bones Hyland was the standout performer of the night, coming off the bench for 18 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists in just 22 minutes to lead all scorers. Zhu Zan followed with 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Bellinger added 14 points and 4 boards. Gobert contributed 6 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists, and rookie Dillingham impressed with 9 assists. For Denver, Jokic finished with 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists; Gordon and Murray added 14 and 12 points respectively, while Pickett, Watson, and Tyson each chipped in valuable minutes off the bench. In the opening quarter, Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo sparked the Wolves’ offense from beyond the arc, building a quick double-digit lead. Jokic and Murray tried to close the gap, but Minnesota’s hot shooting pushed them ahead 40–28 after one. In the second quarter, Valančiūnas showed flashes of power inside while Czajkalski’s height created mismatches in the paint. Denver’s Gordon and Braun responded from deep, but the Wolves maintained control to lead 72–63 at halftime. After the break, both teams leaned on their benches. Watson and Strawther delivered highlight dunks to narrow the gap, yet foul trouble for Valančiūnas and Hyland’s back-to-back threes helped Minnesota regain momentum, extending the lead to 96–80 by the end of the third quarter. In the final period, Pickett’s late surge briefly cut the deficit to nine, but Zhu Zan’s clutch three-pointers put the game out of reach. Despite Tyson and Moses Brown’s efforts, the Nuggets couldn’t mount a comeback. Minnesota’s second unit ultimately proved too energetic and cohesive, clinching the 126–116 win. Even without their stars, the Timberwolves displayed depth, balance, and poise—sending a clear message that they’re ready to contend this season.