MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Timberwolves sent Kevin Love off to NBA All-Star weekend with a complete performance and a critical win.

The Denver Nuggets played as though they were already relaxing on a tropical beach.

Love started practicing early for All-Star festivities, making six of 11 shots from 3-point range and totaling 32 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists to lead the Timberwolves to a 117-90 victory over the Nuggets on Wednesday night.

“It’s always a tough game before the break to come out with a lot of energy, and we did,” Love said. “We were excited to play. We knew we needed a win.”