In just a few days, the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves will go head-to-head for Game 1 of their 2026 NBA Playoff series.
The series will feature some of the most prominent centers in the game. Denver’s offensive superstar, Nikola Jokic, will be battling the defensive star, Rudy Gobert.
As the Timberwolves prepare for the matchup, Gobert met with reporters on Tuesday afternoon, following a Timberwolves practice session.
The Timberwolves’ star center had nothing but praise for Jokic ahead of the first matchup.
GettyDENVER, COLORADO – MAY 14: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets drives against Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game Five of the Western Conference Second Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on May 14, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
Rudy Gobert Speaks On Nikola Jokic Before Game 1
via Andrew Dukowitz on X: Rudy Gobert’s thoughts on Nikola Jokic after playing him so many times
“I think he’s a winner, whatever he does, he plays to win. He’s selfless, he tries to make the right play every time… I like his humility, I think he’s someone that doesn’t really care about the outside noise, he’s just here to show up, help his team win, and go home. I like that, I respect that.”
GettyDENVER, COLORADO – MAY 04: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets goes to the basket against Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter during Game One of the Western Conference Second Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on May 04, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
With Jokic and Gobert both playing in the Western Conference since 2015, they have faced off for a total of 32 games throughout their careers.
Gobert started his career with the Utah Jazz, but was moved to the Timberwolves in a major blockbuster trade a few years back. Over their last 10 battles, Gobert has struggled to slow down Jokic’s offensive attack.
The Nuggets center has averaged 58.5% fro the field and 40.7% from three during that span of 10 games.
Denver’s superstar has produced an average of 34.0 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists against Gobert since 2024.
Nuggets vs Timberwolves Brief History
GettySALT LAKE CITY, UT – APRIL 1: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets calls a play during the first half of a game against the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center on April 1, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
Despite the personal success, Jokic’s Nuggets didn’t stand a chance against the Timberwolves last season. In four regular season games, the Timberwolves had a slean sweep.
However, the Nuggets got their bit of revenge this season. During their four meetings, the Timberwolves collected just one win. During the latest outing, which took place on March 1, the Timberwolves took down the Nuggets with a 117-108 win. That prevented a sweep for the year.
The Nuggets and the Timberwolves are scheduled for a 3:30 PM ET tip on Saturday, April 18.