Timberwolves Eliminate Suns, Nuggets Oust Lakers in Western Conference Playoffs

Why it matters locally: The Timberwolves' victory means they will advance to face the Denver Nuggets in the second round, with games likely to be heavily watched and attended across Minnesota.

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The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Phoenix Suns 122-116, completing a four-game series sweep in the first round of the Western Conference Playoffs. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 40 points, while Kevin Durant scored 33 points for the Suns. Minnesota will advance to face the Denver Nuggets in the second round. In the other Western Conference series, the Denver Nuggets eliminated the Los Angeles Lakers with a 108-106 victory in Game 5. Nikola Jokic posted a triple-double with 25 points, 20 rebounds, and 9 assists. LeBron James led the Lakers with 30 points and 11 assists. Denver won the series 4-1. The Nuggets' victory secures their advancement to the second round against the Timberwolves.