The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Minnesota Timberwolves, 112-97, in Game 5 of the Western Conference Semi-Finals at Ball Arena on Tuesday evening.

The game got out to a competitive start as the the Nuggets led, 28-26, after one quarter. The Timberwolves grabbed a brief edge to start the second, but the hosts regained control and carried a six-point advantage into the break. The visitors jumped out to a great start in the third and grabbed another momentary lead, before the Nuggets turned up the heat and ultimately outscored the Timberwolves, 38-30, in the frame. The Nuggets stayed in control through the fourth and closed out with confidence to secure the 3-2 series lead.

Nikola Jokic put on a masterclass, with 40 points, seven rebounds, 13 assists, two steals, a block and zero turnovers, in 41 minutes of action. Aaron Gordon followed up with 18 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and a steal, while Jamal Murray and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope tallied 16 points each.

Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 23 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals, in 38 minutes. Rudy Gobert totaled 18 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks, while Anthony Edwards finished with 18 points, four rebounds, nine assists and a steal.

Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday in Minnesota.