Jokic Ejected After Heated Clash as Timberwolves Take 3-1 Lead Over Nuggets

Posted : 26 April 2026

Jaden McDaniels sparked a late-game controversy as the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Denver Nuggets 112-96 in Game 4, taking a 3-1 lead in their Western Conference first-round series. A final-second basket from McDaniels led to a heated confrontation that overshadowed the closing moments of the game.

With just over a second remaining, McDaniels drove for an uncontested layup despite the outcome already decided. The play angered Nuggets star Nikola Jokić, who confronted him at half-court after the buzzer was nearing. The situation quickly escalated as both players exchanged words before making physical contact near the Timberwolves’ bench area.

The altercation drew in multiple players, including Timberwolves forward Julius Randle, resulting in a chaotic scene that required officials to intervene. After review, both Jokić and Randle were ejected from the game. League officials are expected to further review the incident ahead of Game 5 in Denver.

McDaniels defended his decision to score, stating that the clock was still running and he simply continued to play until the final whistle. Nuggets coach David Adelman criticized the situation, arguing that the game had already been decided and that such incidents are uncommon in modern playoff basketball.

The game also intensified an already physical and emotional series. McDaniels has been a central figure in the rivalry, previously criticizing Denver’s key players for their defense, comments that added tension heading into the matchup.

Despite the controversy, Minnesota delivered a strong second-half performance to secure control of the series. However, both teams were heavily impacted by injuries during the contest. Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo suffered a season-ending Achilles injury early in the game, while star guard Anthony Edwards exited with a knee injury and is undergoing evaluation.

Denver also dealt with setbacks, as forward Aaron Gordon was limited by injury and key wing Peyton Watson remained sidelined, weakening their defensive depth.

The turning point came in the second half, where reserve guard Ayo Dosunmu delivered a career performance, scoring 43 points and powering Minnesota’s dominant finish. His efficiency helped the Timberwolves pull away as Denver struggled to keep pace.

Jokić finished with a near triple-double but was largely quiet in the final quarter as Minnesota closed out the win. With momentum now firmly in their favor, the Timberwolves return home needing just one more victory to eliminate the reigning MVP and advance in the playoffs.

Jokic Ejected After Heated Clash as Timberwolves Take 3-1 Lead Over Nuggets

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