The Minnesota Timberwolves walked away from Game 4 against the Denver Nuggets with a commanding series lead, but also with major questions about the health of their backcourt. In a chaotic first half, two key starters were sidelined in quick succession, shifting the tone of both the game and the series.
It began just over a minute into the contest when Donte DiVincenzo suffered a non-contact injury while attempting to chase down a rebound after a missed three-pointer. He immediately headed to the locker room and was later ruled out.
By halftime, he was seen with his leg immobilized, and it was soon confirmed he had torn his right Achilles tendon, an injury that will end his season.
The situation worsened shortly before the break when Anthony Edwards landed awkwardly on his left leg. The star guard appeared to hyperextend his knee and stayed down briefly, visibly frustrated before being helped off the court. He did not return to the game.
A mix of relief and concern as Minnesota pushes forward
While the loss of DiVincenzo is a significant blow, there was at least some encouraging news regarding Edwards. According to ESPN, an MRI revealed that Edwards sustained a bone bruise along with the hyperextension, but crucially, there was no ligament damage.
He is expected to miss multiple weeks, a timeline that keeps the door open for a return later in the postseason.
Head coach Chris Finch spoke about DiVincenzo‘s injury after the game, emphasizing the emotional impact on the team.
“Completely devastating for Donte. He’s had such a great season,” said Finch.
“He’s the heart and soul of so many things that we do. You could see the look in his eye when it happened and you knew. We’ll love him and be there for him.
Despite losing two starters before halftime, Minnesota managed to regroup and dominate late in the game. After trailing through much of the second and third quarters, the Timberwolves surged in the fourth to secure a 110-96 victory, taking a 3-1 lead in the series.
A major factor in that comeback was the unexpected play of Ayo Dosunmu. Coming off the bench, he delivered a career-best 43 points, placing himself among a select group of players to score 40 or more in a playoff game as a reserve.
Tensions also flared late, as Nikola Jokic was involved in a physical exchange with Jaden McDaniels, leading to ejections for Jokic and Julius Randle. Further disciplinary action could still follow.
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