Jamal Murray scores 30 as Denver Nuggets beat Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of West playoffs 2026

Jamal Murray scored 30 points to lead Denver Nuggets to a 1-0 series lead over Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2026 NBA playoffs.

Playoff action begins The 2026 NBA playoffs got underway on Saturday with a full slate of first-round games for fans to follow. The Western Conference opener featured the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves, setting the stage for a competitive series. Denver's Jamal Murray, making his first All-Star appearance this season, delivered a standout performance to secure the win. The Nuggets and Timberwolves face off again Monday at 10:30 p.m. ET on NBC. ## Murray and Jokic lead Denver Jamal Murray led all scorers with 30 points, seven assists, and five rebounds while shooting an exceptional 16-for-16 from the free-throw line. Nikola Jokic contributed 25 points despite a slow start, finishing with 13 rebounds and 11 assists for his 22nd career postseason triple-double. Denver's 14-0 third-quarter run extended their lead as Minnesota struggled to connect on shots. Aaron Gordon battled early foul trouble, forcing Jokic to carry more of the load initially. ## Edwards keeps Timberwolves close Anthony Edwards scored 22 points in 37 minutes but was limited by right knee discomfort throughout the game. Coach Chris Finch substituted Edwards late in the third quarter to manage his workload before the fourth period. Minnesota outscored Denver 54-46 in the paint despite the loss. The Timberwolves aim to adjust their defensive approach to limit Murray's perimeter impact in Game 2. ## Houston Rockets face Lakers The day concluded with the Houston Rockets visiting the Los Angeles Lakers at 8:30 p.m. ET. Los Angeles has spent the season competing without LeBron James due to injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Houston may also be without Kevin Durant, listed as questionable with a knee contusion ahead of the game. The series carries added intrigue given the roster challenges on both sides. ## Series history and adjustments These teams have met more often than any other pair over the past three seasons, with Denver holding a 15-14 advantage. Murray's 16 free throws set a Nuggets playoff record, reflecting his aggressive style and the officiating tone in this rivalry. Minnesota's ability to generate 54 points in the paint showed their usual strengths. Game 2 will test whether the Timberwolves can better contain Murray without fouling and adjust to Denver's offensive rhythm. ## Schedule and coverage updates Fans can track every playoff result and upcoming matchups through the league's official schedules and results pages. Playoff preview guides break down key storylines and player matchups entering the second round. Additional analysis is available covering the Eastern Conference's opening games and series trends.