Wolves-Nuggets III: The Rubber Match & 2026 Playoff Preview

The NBA’s newest rivalry reaches its "WrestleMania" moment as the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets prepare for their third playoff meeting in four years. Host Steve Hartman is joined by Andrew Dukowitz (Zone Coverage, Hitting the Hardwood) to break down every angle of this high-stakes first-round series.With the playoff history between these two teams currently tied at one series apiece, this "rubber match" carries massive implications for both franchises. Steve and Andrew dive into the tactical chess match, the "legacy" stakes for the stars, and why the Wolves might thrive as heavy underdogs.Key Discussion PointsThe Murray Blueprint: Will the Wolves start Jaden McDaniels on Jamal Murray, or will they lean on the "trifecta" of Donte DiVincenzo, Ayo Dosunmu, and Bones Hyland to navigate the Denver backcourt?.The Rudy-Jokić Legacy Series: Is this the moment Rudy Gobert silences the critics? We discuss the philosophy of guarding Nikola Jokić—from "throwing the kitchen sink" at him to letting him score 50 while shutting down everyone else.Ant vs. The Nuggets Defense: Denver has historically struggled to slow down Anthony Edwards. With limited rim protection on the Nuggets' roster, can the Wolves’ offense turn this series into a "track meet"?.The X-Factors: Why Jaden McDaniels has "Scottie Pippen" potential in this series and how Ayo Dosunmu’s speed could punish Denver’s double-teams.Injury Reports & Rotations: The latest on Peyton Watson’s status for Denver and how his potential absence impacts the Nuggets' wing depth.Predictions: Andrew and Steve make their final calls on who advances in what feels like a coin-toss series.About the GuestAndrew Dukowitz covers the Timberwolves and Lynx for Zone Coverage and is the host of the Missing Wolves and Missing Links postgame podcast shows. You can find his work at Hitting the Hardwood and follow him on social media @adukemn.Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube. Follow Splash City Basketball Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky.