Nikola Jokic delivered an impressive performance, amassing a remarkable 41 points to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 116-107 triumph over the Minnesota Timberwolves. His contribution of 11 rebounds, seven assists, and three steals played a crucial role in propelling the Nuggets to the top position in the Western Conference. This victory places the defending NBA champions in a favourable position to secure the number one seed and home advantage for the impending playoffs.
Following their defeat, the Minnesota Timberwolves now find themselves tied for second place in the West with the Oklahoma City Thunder, who dominated the San Antonio Spurs with a resounding 127-89 victory. The Spurs, who were depleted due to injuries, were without key players such as Victor Wembanyama, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Jeremy Sochan.
In other Western Conference matchups, the Phoenix Suns, led by Devin Booker’s exceptional performance of 37 points, secured a 124-108 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers moved closer to clinching a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with a 110-98 victory against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving also made significant contributions, scoring 29 and 25 points, respectively, to drive the Dallas Mavericks to a convincing 111-92 triumph over the Miami Heat, dashing the Heat’s hopes for a top-six seed.
Other notable victories include the Milwaukee Bucks defeating the Orlando Magic 117-99 and the Charlotte Hornets mounting a remarkable comeback from an 18-point deficit to edge out the Atlanta Hawks 115-114. The Brooklyn Nets also secured a 106-102 victory against the Toronto Raptors.
With only two regular-season matches remaining, the contest for playoff berths and seeding in both the Eastern and Western Conferences is intensifying, laying the groundwork for what promises to be an exhilarating postseason.