NBA Playoffs Game 3 Denver vs Minnesota: Game Preview and Prediction

Denver Nuggets @ Minnesota Timberwolves Game Details

Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026

Time: 9:30 PM ET

Location: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN

TV: Prime Video

Betting Line: Nuggets -1.5

Over/Under: 233.5

Series Status: Tied 1-1

Nuggets vs Timberwolves Prediction & Game Preview

This Western Conference playoff matchup between the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves shifts into a pivotal Game 3, with momentum hanging in the balance after a dramatic swing in Game 2.

Minnesota enters this matchup riding the emotional high of a 119-114 comeback victory, rallying from a 19-point deficit on the road. The Timberwolves showed resilience and toughness, proving they can compete with the defending champions under pressure. Now back at the Target Center, Minnesota has an opportunity to seize control of the series in front of a charged home crowd.

Denver, meanwhile, finds itself in the unfamiliar position of needing to respond. After a dominant Game 1 performance, the Nuggets lost control late in Game 2. Despite strong showings from Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, Denver struggled to maintain composure down the stretch. Now, they must regroup and execute more efficiently to regain the upper hand.

From a betting perspective, this matchup centers on experience versus momentum. Minnesota brings confidence and energy, while Denver leans on championship pedigree and composure.

Top 4 Prop Bets

Prop Bet #1: Nikola Jokić Over 26.5 Points

DraftKings

4.6/5

Tip: Jokic Over 26.5 Points

• Consistency
• Usage
• Value

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Nikola Jokić remains the centerpiece of Denver’s offense, and his scoring ability will be critical in Game 3. Despite the loss in Game 2, Jokić produced efficiently and continues to be the most reliable option for the Nuggets. His ability to score in the post and facilitate offense makes him extremely difficult to defend. Expect an increased scoring emphasis as Denver looks to reassert control. This prop offers strong value.

Prop Bet #2: Anthony Edwards Over 29.5 Points

Caesars

4.5/5

Tip: Edwards Over 29.5 Points

• Momentum
• Star Power
• Value

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Anthony Edwards is playing at an elite level and continues to be the driving force behind Minnesota’s offense. Coming off a 30-point performance, his confidence and aggressiveness make him a constant scoring threat. With the home crowd behind him, Edwards should maintain a high usage rate and continue attacking the rim. This prop presents solid value given his current form.

Prop Bet #3: Jamal Murray Over 2.5 Made Threes

FanDuel

4.6/5

Tip: Murray Over 2.5 3PT Made

• Shooting
• Volume
• Value

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Jamal Murray’s perimeter shooting remains a key component of Denver’s offense. His ability to stretch the floor creates spacing opportunities for Jokić and the rest of the lineup. After a strong Game 2 showing, Murray should continue to look for his shot, particularly from beyond the arc. This prop offers strong value based on his role and shot volume.

Prop Bet #4: Game Total Over 233.5 Points

BetMGM

4.5/5

Tip: Over 233.5

• Pace
• Offense
• Value

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With both teams capable of scoring at a high level, this matchup has the potential to exceed the projected total. Minnesota’s pace combined with Denver’s offensive efficiency suggests a high-scoring contest. If both teams maintain their offensive rhythm, the over becomes a strong play.

The Matchup Context: Series Tied 1-1

Minnesota looks to build on its Game 2 comeback and take control, while Denver aims to respond and reclaim momentum.

Players to Watch

Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves): Offensive catalyst and primary scorer.

Nikola Jokić (Nuggets): Playmaking center controlling tempo.

Julius Randle (Timberwolves): Secondary scoring option and physical presence.

Jamal Murray (Nuggets): Perimeter threat and late-game scorer.

The Verdict

Prediction: Nuggets 116, Timberwolves 113

Pick: Nuggets -1.5

Expect a physical, high-intensity battle in Minneapolis. While the Timberwolves carry momentum, Denver’s championship experience and ability to adjust should allow them to regain control and edge out a narrow Game 3 victory.