Nikola Jokic poured in a triple‑double to power the Denver Nuggets past the Minnesota Timberwolves 125‑113, keeping the franchise’s postseason hopes alive. Jokic finished with 28 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists, while the Timberwolves struggled to find rhythm.

The victory lifts Denver to a 47‑31 record, keeping them inside the West’s top eight. Jokic’s performance underlines his role as the team’s linchpin, while Minnesota’s 113‑point output signals defensive issues that could haunt them in the playoffs.

Cade Cunningham led the Detroit Pistons with 25 points in a 94‑88 loss to the Orlando Magic, a defeat that sharpens Detroit’s 3‑1 deficit in the first‑round series. The Magic, finishing eighth in the East, have yet to reach the second round since 2010, highlighting the stakes of this matchup.

Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander capped a 131‑122 win over Phoenix to close a 4‑0 sweep, cementing the Thunder’s spot in the second round. With a 3‑1 advantage over the Lakers, the Thunder now target Houston or the Lakers in the next round, positioning themselves for a deep playoff run.