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Wolves-Nuggets: 56k | 300k 
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The Nuggets had lost eight consecutive meetings with the Timberwolves, including their first three this season. Their last victory over Minnesota came on April 4, 2002.
"We started from the beginning to push the ball," Anthony said. "Our backs were against the wall, we had to have this game."
Denver (38-35) move one-half game ahead of Utah for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Nuggets have won two straight games after losing seven of 10.
"This team has done a wonderful job this season," Denver coach Jeff Bzdelik said. "We are headed to the finish line and we need to finish strong."
Earl Boykins scored 21 points on 8-of-15 shooting and Anthony made a season-high 13-of-15 free throws to help Denver lead most of the game.
The Timberwolves tied the game, 69-69, in the third quarter, but a pretty feed from Boykins to Rodney White resulted in a dunk before Boykins drove around Troy Hudson to put Denver up, 73-69, heading into the final quarter. They never relinquished the lead again.
"I think that because they did play last night and because of the altitude, they seemed a little tired," Boykins said. "But we competed really hard tonight; it was a must game. You want to be in control of your own destiny."
Coming off Tuesday's tough home win over San Antonio, Minnesota looked sluggish and repeatedly were beaten to loose balls. Kevin Garnett had 24 points and 14 rebounds, but fellow All-Star Sam Cassell scored just six points and committed seven turnovers before fouling out with 3:57 remaining.
Minnesota outshot Denver, 47 percent (35-of-75) to 37 percent (32-of-87). But the Timberwolves turned the ball over 21 times while the Nuggets committed a season-low six.
"Denver played hard, but we beat ourselves," Minnesota coach Flip Saunders said. "When you turn it over 21 times, you are asking to get your butts kicked. We weren't locked in."
The Timberwolves lead the Los Angeles Lakers for second place in the Western Conference by one-half game.
"Earl Boykins is a momentum-shifter," Garnett said. "He's my Sixth Man of the Year. He comes in and changes the game."
Denver's Marcus Camby did not play due to a strained right groin.