Minnesota vs Denver 2026: Playoff Race Tightens – Week 26 Update

Denver Nuggets guard Cameron Johnson is probable for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, while Spencer Jones remains questionable, according to reports. The matchup, scheduled for 3:30 PM ET at Ball Arena, pits two teams currently tied for the No. 4 position in the Western Conference at 37-23.

The Nuggets are facing ongoing challenges with player availability. Anthony Gordon and Peyton Watson are confirmed out due to hamstring injuries, and Tamar Bates is a long-term absentee. The Timberwolves, comparatively, have a cleaner injury report, though Julius Randle is listed as questionable with right lower-back spasms.

Denver enters the game as a slight home favorite, with odds of -2.5, while Minnesota is at +2.5, according to DraftKings. The over/under is set at 237.5. Despite the Nuggets’ depleted roster, they have won the last three head-to-head meetings against Minnesota, including a 142-138 overtime victory in their previous encounter.

Minnesota is coming off a road win against the Los Angeles Clippers, led by Anthony Edwards, who scored 31 points. Edwards currently ranks third in the NBA in scoring, averaging 29.6 points per game and leading the Timberwolves with 3.4 made three-pointers per game. Randle contributes 21.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

The Nuggets have struggled to cover the spread at home this season, posting a 13-14 ATS record at Ball Arena. Denver has seen the over hit in 63.3% of their games this season, with 38 of 60 games exceeding the total. The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in their last four games.

Experts predict a close contest, with the outcome potentially hinging on the Nuggets’ ability to leverage Nikola Jokic’s performance despite the absence of key players. The Timberwolves are seeking their first win against Denver this season after losing all three previous matchups.