NBA Playoffs: Jokic Keeps Nuggets Alive; Magic Push Top Seed Pistons To Brink

Last Updated:April 28, 2026, 11:27 IST

Jokic keeps Denver alive, Orlando move one win from a major upset, and OKC sweep Phoenix as the NBA playoffs heat up.

Nikola Jokic returned to form at the right time as the Denver Nuggets stayed alive in their first-round series with a 125–113 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5.

Jokic finished with a 27-point triple-double (12 rebounds, 16 assists), setting the tone in a game Denver largely controlled. Jamal Murray added 24 points despite inefficient shooting, while Cameron Johnson contributed 18.

Minnesota were short-handed, missing Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo, and lacked the edge that defined their earlier wins. Julius Randle led the scoring with 27, while Ayo Dosunmu added 18.

Despite brief stretches of resistance, the Timberwolves never fully shifted momentum. Denver’s composure ensured the series moves to Game 6 with Minnesota still leading 3–2.

Orlando Close to Historic Upset

The bigger storyline may be unfolding in the East, where the Orlando Magic are one win away from eliminating the top-seeded Detroit Pistons.

Orlando secured a 94–88 win in Game 4 to take a 3–1 series lead. Desmond Bane scored 22 points, including a crucial late three, while Franz Wagner (19 points) and Paolo Banchero (18 points, eight rebounds) provided support.

Detroit, who finished with a league-best 60–22 record, were led by Cade Cunningham (25 points) and Tobias Harris (20). However, 20 turnovers proved costly.

The Magic, who had to come through the play-in tournament, are now on the verge of becoming just the seventh No. 8 seed to defeat a No. 1 seed in NBA playoff history.

Game 5 shifts to Detroit, where the Pistons must win three straight to stay alive.

Thunder Sweep Suns

Meanwhile, the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder became the first team into the second round, completing a 4–0 sweep of the Phoenix Suns with a 131–122 win.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with 31 points and eight assists, continuing his strong postseason run. Chet Holmgren added 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Isaiah Hartenstein chipped in with a double-double.

Devin Booker scored 24 for Phoenix, but the Suns couldn’t extend the series.

Oklahoma City will now face either the Los Angeles Lakers or the Houston Rockets in the next round, with the Lakers currently leading that series 3-1.

(with agency inputs)

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