Minnesota Timberwolves eliminate Nuggets to set up Spurs play-off clash
The Minnesota Timberwolves have advanced to the Western Conference semi-finals against the San Antonio Spurs after defeating the Denver Nuggets 110-98 to seal a 4-2 series victory.
Jaden McDaniels delivered a career-high 32-point performance to ensure the Minneapolis franchise progressed from their first-round match-up.
They will now host Monday’s series opener against San Antonio and could be bolstered by the return of Anthony Edwards from injury.
Jokic involved in another altercation
The Nuggets’ exit was marred by a tense scuffle with just under 10 minutes remaining in the final quarter.
Three-time Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic became entangled with Jaylen Clark and Naz Reid, resulting in technical fouls for all three players.
It was the second major incident involving the Serbian centre in this series, following his ejection for instigating a confrontation at the end of game four.
Despite registering a team-high 28 points and 10 assists, the Denver talisman took full responsibility for the elimination.
“I needed to play better. I must play better.”
Knicks make NBA post-season history
Over in the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks shattered post-season records by thrashing the Atlanta Hawks 140-89 to clinch their own 4-2 series triumph.
The phenomenal 51-point margin of victory represents a franchise play-off record for the historic organisation.
They also established a new NBA post-season benchmark by opening up an unassailable 47-point advantage by half-time.
Karl-Anthony Towns orchestrated the offense with a brilliant triple-double consisting of 12 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists.
Team-mate OG Anunoby led the scoring with 29 points as the New York side secured a fourth consecutive semi-final appearance.
76ers force decider against Celtics
The Knicks will now prepare to face either the Boston Celtics or the Philadelphia 76ers in the next round.
Philadelphia kept their championship hopes alive by claiming a vital 106-93 victory to level their series at 3-3.
Tyrese Maxey exploded for 30 points, while veteran forward Paul George contributed 23 points to stave off elimination.
The two Eastern Conference rivals will now meet for a decisive game seven in Boston on Saturday.