Luka Doncic delivered an explosive 20-point first quarter, culminating in a postseason-high 36 points, as the Dallas Mavericks dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-103 on Thursday night.
This decisive victory in Game 5 propels the Mavericks to the NBA Finals for the first time since their 2011 championship win.
Coach Jason Kidd Praises Doncic’s Leadership
Doncic’s leadership was evident as he started 4 for 4 from the field, hitting deep shots while engaging with courtside fans. His early performance set the tone for the Mavericks, who established a commanding 29-point halftime lead with a remarkable 61 percent shooting accuracy.
Kyrie Irving’s Impact
Kyrie Irving matched Doncic’s 36 points, playing a crucial role in the Mavericks’ victory. Irving’s experience in playoff closeout games shone through, improving his career record in such situations to 15-1. The Mavericks’ offensive firepower, combined with their stifling defense, kept the Timberwolves at bay, extending their lead to 36 points in the third quarter.
Mavericks Set Sights on NBA Finals Against Celtics
As the fifth seed in the West, the Mavericks now have a week to rest before facing the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals on June 6. This marks Dallas’ first Finals appearance since their championship win in 2011, with Kidd then a player on the team. The Celtics, having swept Indiana in the Eastern Conference finals, will also be well-rested with 10 days off.
Timberwolves’ Strong Season Ends
Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns each scored 28 points for the Timberwolves, with Towns also grabbing 12 rebounds. Despite their impressive season, including a first-round sweep of Phoenix and a seven-game series win over defending champions Denver, the Timberwolves were unable to counter the Mavericks’ dynamic duo of Doncic and Irving.
Mavericks’ Defensive Prowess
Doncic’s 36 points, along with 10 rebounds, earned him the series MVP title. He and Irving, a 2016 NBA champion, outshined the Timberwolves throughout the series. Rookie Dereck Lively II returned from injury, bolstering the Mavericks’ defense alongside Daniel Gafford, who contributed 11 points and nine rebounds. Their combined effort stifled Rudy Gobert and the Timberwolves’ offense.
Timberwolves’ Offensive Struggles
Despite Edwards reaching the 25-point mark for the 15th time in 27 playoff games, he struggled against the Mavericks’ double teams. The Timberwolves’ offense faltered, with coaches unable to find a cohesive lineup.
As the first half ended, Edwards’ drive and subsequent passes failed to produce a shot, exemplifying their offensive woes. P.J. Washington’s 12 points and defensive presence highlighted the Mavericks’ dominance.
The Dallas Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, showcased their dominance in a decisive Game 5 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, securing their spot in the NBA Finals.
Doncic’s remarkable performance and leadership set the tone early, while Irving’s playoff experience proved invaluable. The Mavericks’ blend of offensive firepower and defensive prowess overwhelmed the Timberwolves, whose strong season came to a disappointing end.
With a week to prepare, the Mavericks now aim to bring another championship to Dallas as they face the Boston Celtics in the highly anticipated NBA Finals.
