Game 1 is approaching for the Denver Nuggets against the Minnesota Timberwolves. As the series inches closer, the third-seeded Nuggets are getting a lot of love in the prediction game.
However, the former five-time NBA All-Star Chris Webber is placing the Nuggets on upset alert in the first round.
The former first-overall pick joined The Rich Eisen Show to discuss his thoughts on a handful of matchups. Webber went in-depth with his analysis regarding the Nuggets and the Timberwolves.
Chris Webber Places The Denver Nuggets On Upset Alert
GettyPORTLAND, OREGON – OCTOBER 22: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on October 22, 2025 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
It started with a compliment for the Nuggets, who have a steady MVP candidate in Nikola Jokic.
“First of all, I think that Jokic is the best player in the NBA,” Webber stated.
“I’m not saying he’s the MVP, but I think arguably, he’s been the best player. I think their team is great. I think they have a wonderful coach in [David] Adelman, but I think that Minnesota is a bad matchup for them. I just think that is something that could be upset alert.”
What should the Nuggets be worried about?
“When you look at Ant-Man, and what he does in the game, when you look at the fact that during the playoffs, each play condenses and you don’t get as many fast breaks, Jokic is going to be himself and wonderful,” Webber explained. “However, if you can get out with your athleticism, and if the big fella, who you really don’t need to score as much, this Eiffel Tower, you don’t really need him. Now, is where he makes his value.
In a playoff game, where he gets one important block. I just like their pace, and I like their attitude and will. Those are the kind of teams with great home-court support as well in Minnesota. You just always say, it doesn’t start until someone loses at home. This one, it could easily happen early. I just think their wings, the way they play, and potentially how hot Ant-Man can get is really going to be a problem.”
Anthony Edwards Is A Major Threat
PORTLAND, OREGON – FEBRUARY 24: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts during the second quarter of the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center on February 24, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Alika Jenner/Getty Images)Getty
Edwards is one of the top players in the game. The 24-year-old shooting guard has been an All-Star for four years in a row and has made All-NBA over the past two years.
This season, he’s short of qualifying for awards, but that doesn’t strip away his value. In 61 games, Edwards posted averages of 28.8 points, 3.7 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.4 steals.
With four playoff runs under his belt, Edwards isn’t new to the different environment. Over 42 playoff games, Edwards has averaged 26.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. He shot 46.8% from the field and 37.7% from three throughout his postseason journeys.
The Timberwolves have had success against the Nuggets in the past, but Saturday marks the start of a clean slate for both sides.
The Nuggets will host the Timberwolves for a 3:30 PM ET tip.