From The Sports Desk: Now we’re even

April 22, 2026 - 03:01

The NBA playoffs delivered a dramatic night of resilience as both the Atlanta Hawks and Minnesota Timberwolves erased series deficits with crucial road victories. Each lower-seeded team fought back to knot their first-round matchups at two games apiece, shifting the pressure back onto their higher-ranked opponents.

In Atlanta's case, they ventured into Boston and secured a stunning victory over the top-seeded Celtics. The win, achieved without star guard Trae Young for the second consecutive game, was a testament to the team's collective effort and defensive grit. It marks a complete reversal from the first two games of the series and ensures the action will return to Atlanta for at least one more contest.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves silenced a raucous Denver crowd by defeating the Nuggets. Their performance was anchored by a dominant defensive display, effectively containing NBA MVP Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets' potent offense. The win not only squares the series but also reclaims the home-court advantage they had initially surrendered.

The results guarantee that both series will extend at least six games, promising fans more high-stakes basketball. The momentum has palpably swung, setting the stage for pivotal Game 5 matchups as these tightly contested battles continue.