Luka Dončić’s impressive performance propels the Dallas Mavericks to a narrow 108-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, with Kyrie Irving and P.J. Washington also making key contributions. Despite a strong effort from Jaden McDaniels and Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves fall short in a hard-fought game dominated by the Mavericks in the paint.
Mavericks Edge Timberwolves in Game 1 of Western Conference Finals
MINNEAPOLIS — Luka Dončić scored 15 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Dallas Mavericks to a 108-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals. Despite trailing 102-98 with 3:37 left, the Mavericks pulled off an 8-0 run before the Timberwolves scored again.
Kyrie Irving contributed significantly, netting 24 of his 30 points in the first half. A critical three-pointer from Dončić at a crucial moment ended a 10-0 Timberwolves run, securing the Mavericks’ lead. P.J. Washington added 13 points and seven rebounds for Dallas.
Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels had his third consecutive game with over 20 points, finishing with 24. Anthony Edwards, who was named to the All-NBA Second Team before the game, delivered 19 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists but struggled offensively. Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 16 points after a late surge but hit only 6 of 20 shots.
Dallas dominated in the paint with a 62-38 advantage in points down low. The Timberwolves will host Game 2 on Friday night as they seek to even the series.