The Timberwolves' defense was rated best in the NBA most of the season, but Monday's stifling 106-80 dismantling of reigning champion Denver was next level.
The Nuggets' 80 points were their fewest scored in the regular or postseason this season. Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards outscored the Nuggets by themselves 36-35 in the first half. The Wolves frustrated Denver star Jamal Murray enough he was fined $100,000 by the league for throwing a heat pack and towel on the court during a 3-for-18 shooting night.
The Wolves did it all without now four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert at home in Minnesota cradling his newborn son Romeo while he watched them play on.