The rivalry between the Nuggets and Timberwolves is escalating in the 2026 NBA playoffs. The teams will face off four times as division opponents and in the NBA playoffs for the third time in four years. Their coaching staffs and front offices regularly trade places. Most of the staff connections between the teams have been related to Tim Connelly, Minnesota's president of basketball operations, who previously ran Denver’s front office for nine years. The Nuggets have also acquired Jon Wallace from Minnesota and hired him as their new co-general manager. Despite a five-game clash between the two teams, the rivalry remains strong.