MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Nikola Pekovic had 22 points and 11 rebounds and Minnesota used a big advantage at the free throw line to overcome Kevin Love’s shooting struggles and beat Denver.

Love finished with eight points on 3-for-17 shooting and grabbed 14 rebounds on a day he had to explain to Minnesota’s owner and his teammates some critical comments he made about the franchise.

The Timberwolves shot under 40 percent for much of the game, but made 30 of 37 from the free throw line. The Nuggets were just 14 of 24 at the line.