5 Takeaways from a Stunning Game 1 Upset
Anthony Edwards Looks Unstoppable in Opener, Jamal Murray Shines
Here are the biggest takeaways from Minnesota's Game 1 upset.
The Minnesota Timberwolves sent shockwaves through the NBA world on Saturday night, upsetting the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series. Here are five key takeaways from the Wolves' stunning victory:
1. Anthony Edwards is a superstar in the making. The young guard had a playoff career-high 43 points, shooting 15-of-23 from the field and 5-of-10 from three-point range. He also added seven rebounds, three assists and three steals. Edwards was simply unstoppable, showcasing his incredible athleticism and skill. He repeatedly attacked the basket, drawing fouls and hitting tough shots. He also hit key three-pointers in the fourth quarter to seal the victory.
2. Jamal Murray is back. After missing the entire regular season with an ACL injury, Murray made a triumphant return in Game 1. He finished with 24 points, five rebounds and four assists. Murray looked sharp, hitting several clutch shots in the fourth quarter. His return gives the Nuggets a much-needed boost, and he has the potential to be a major factor in this series.
3. The Timberwolves' defense was stifling. The Nuggets are one of the highest-scoring teams in the NBA, but the Timberwolves held them to just 95 points on Saturday night. Minnesota's defense was active and aggressive, forcing the Nuggets into tough shots. They also did a great job of limiting Denver's second chances, holding them to just seven offensive rebounds.
4. The Timberwolves are not afraid of the moment. This was a huge game for the Timberwolves, who had never won a playoff game on the road before. But they played with poise and confidence, never letting the moment get too big for them. They made big plays when they needed to, and they never gave up, even when the Nuggets made a late run.
5. The series is far from over. The Nuggets are a veteran team with a lot of experience. They will be looking to bounce back in Game 2, and they will be determined to tie the series. The Timberwolves will need to play with the same intensity and focus that they showed in Game 1. If they can do that, they have a chance to pull off a major upset.
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