In a thrilling start to the Western Conference playoffs, the Denver Nuggets defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 116-105, with Jamal Murray leading the charge. Murray scored a game-high 30 points, breaking a franchise record by making 16 free throws without a miss. His performance was pivotal, especially as the Nuggets struggled with their three-point shooting, going just 1-for-17 in the second half. Despite this, Denver maintained a strong lead, showcasing their resilience in playoff scenarios. This victory marked the Nuggets' eighth win in nine series openers since 2023, indicating their strong playoff presence. Timberwolves coach Chris Finch noted the disparity in free throw attempts, as his team made just 14 of 19 from the line. Minnesota's star player, Anthony Edwards, faced challenges in his performance, finishing with 22 points and showing signs of fatigue. The series is expected to be a closely contested battle, given the historical rivalry between the two teams.