Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves are firing on all cylinders in the playoffs after eliminating the Denver Nuggets 4-2 to advance to the Western Conference semi-finals, where they've drawn the San Antonio Spurs in a tantalising matchup. Anthony Edwards has been crucial to their run despite managing a knee injury, leading Minnesota to a gritty first-game victory over the Spurs even as Victor Wembanyama made an extraordinary statement with an NBA playoff record 12 blocks. The Timberwolves have already lodged complaints about officiating in that opener, suggesting several of Wembanyama's blocks may have been goaltending infractions that the referees missed. With Jalen McDaniels adding spice to their playoff intensity and the team clearly peaking at the right time, Minnesota looks like serious Western Conference contenders heading deeper into the postseason.