The 5 biggest keys to the Nuggets Timberwolves 2nd round playoff matchup

5. Murray/Jokic 2-man game

The key to this series, like the key to many things in life, is the unstoppable two-man game between Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic. This has become the deadliest weapon in the NBA and has been dominating the league for multiple seasons now. Nobody has figured out a way to solve this issue and until someone does, the Nuggets may continue their reign as champions.

But if anyone can figure this thing out it’s the Timberwolves. Minnesota has had a historically elite defense all season and finished first in the league on that end by a good margin. They’ve got size and athleticism at every position and they can throw a number of different looks at the Nuggets.

DPOY favorite Rudy Gobert will have his hands full with Jokic, but he can give as good as he gets. If he’s able to guard Jokic without a double team and keep him somewhat contained that would be a game-changer. If Jokic cracks that - as he has in the past, that’ll spell trouble for the Wolves.

On the outside, the Wolves have one of the best wing defenders in the league in Jaden McDaniels. He could smother Murray with size and physicality, and if Murray starts beating him with quickness they could pivot to giving Edwards that assignment. 

This will be an amazing chess match to watch, one that will likely define this series and ultimately determine the victor. I can’t wait to watch this one unfold and see which team and players rise to the occasion. We’re in for a good one.