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Julius Randle delivered a direct assessment after the Minnesota Timberwolves fell 125-113 to the Denver Nuggets in Game 5 of the Western Conference playoff series at Ball Arena on Monday night.
Randle pointed to execution as the main issue, saying, “I think we were just all trying to make plays and being a little bit too much of us just trying to do it on our own.” He added that Denver’s defensive approach was not unfamiliar.
“They’re not playing any differently than they played all series,” Randle said. “We just got to continue to make the right plays, the easy plays, and I’ll take accountability for that. Five turnovers for me is too much.”
Despite Minnesota’s 25 turnovers, the forward noted the offense still generated output. “No, we had 25 turnovers and still scored 113 points. So no, I don’t think so.”
The Nuggets leaned on Nikola Jokic, who posted 27 points, 16 assists and 12 rebounds, while Spencer Jones added 20 points in a key support role. Denver cut the series deficit to 3-2.
Minnesota played without Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo, while Naz Reid briefly exited with an ankle issue. Randle acknowledged the injury context but emphasized responsibility. “We knew that they were going to play with a certain energy and physicality coming into this game,” he said.
Randle also pointed to decision-making in key areas of the floor. “We just didn’t play solid, sound defense. Kind of went away a little bit from what’s been working all series,” he said.
In transition defense, Minnesota struggled to contain Denver’s pace. “In the half court, we’re pretty good,” Randle said. “We’ve been good at not letting them get fast break points all series and they had 23 tonight. So we got to handle that.”
The veteran forward reiterated the need for simplification in Game 6. “Win the game, as simple as that. Don’t beat ourselves. I feel like we beat ourselves tonight.”
Randle also addressed Jaden McDaniels, who dealt with early foul trouble. “Jaden will be better next game. He’ll be fine. I’m not worried about him,” he said, pointing to collective resilience.
Denver’s fourth-quarter separation, fueled by Jokic and a strong bench surge, exposed Minnesota’s late-game control issues after cutting a large deficit earlier.
Randle summarized the approach heading into Game 6 in Minneapolis with a clear message. “Just win the game, make the simple plays, don’t beat ourselves, and play defense.”
The Timberwolves still lead the series 3-2, with Game 6 set for Thursday night.
