The Denver Nuggets bounced back in the Western Conference playoff semi-finals with a 115-107 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, tying the series at 2-2. Nikola Jokic led the charge with 35 points, including 16 in the crucial fourth quarter, while Aaron Gordon contributed 27 points and Jamal Murray added 19. Despite Anthony Edwards’ impressive 44-point performance for the Timberwolves, the Nuggets held on to secure the win. Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised his team’s resilience, emphasizing their championship pedigree and ability to overcome adversity. With the series now level, the teams head back to Denver for game five.
In the Eastern Conference semi-finals, the Indiana Pacers routed the injury-hit New York Knicks 121-89 to even the series at 2-2. The Pacers dominated from the start, building a commanding 20-point lead after the first quarter and never looking back. Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers’ balanced scoring attack with 20 points, while six players scored in double figures. The Knicks, who had previously led the series 2-0, now face a tough challenge as they return home for game five.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks emerged victorious in the NBA draft lottery, securing the first overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA draft. The lottery determines the draft order for the 14 teams that did not make the playoffs, with the Hawks securing the top spot. The Washington Wizards will pick second, followed by the Houston Rockets and the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs, who won last year’s lottery and selected Victor Wembanyama, will have to settle for the fourth pick this year.