Timberwolves vs Mavericks game preview

As the Minnesota Timberwolves head into Dallas with a 0-2 deficit, the pressure intensifies, particularly on their dynamic shooting guard Anthony Edwards, who's been averaging 25.9 points per game. A critical aspect of Minnesota's potential comeback lies in their management of balances between aggression and composure. With Mike Conley listed as day-to-day and his stellar playmaking abilities at 5.9 assists per game potentially compromised, the Timberwolves will need their bench players to substantially step up. Additionally, rebounding prowess from Rudy Gobert, who's been pulling down almost 13 rebounds a game, will be crucial, especially against a robust Dallas frontcourt. The Timberwolves will have to lock in defensively and harness their third-ranked Western Conference offensive efficiency to challenge the Mavericks on their home court.

On the other side, the Dallas Mavericks have a substantial opportunity to leverage their 2-0 series lead into a commanding position with a home game up next. The spotlight remains squarely on Luka Doncic, despite his day-to-day status due to ankle soreness. Doncic, who has been nothing short of phenomenal with season averages of 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds per game, is expected to be a key factor if he's healthy enough to play. His ability to control the game's tempo and make critical plays could be the deciding factor. Dallas must continue to exploit their home-court advantage, where they've historically performed well, and rely on their strategic depth to navigate around Doncic's health uncertainties. Maintaining offensive fluidity and tightening defensive assignments will be their primary focus to bring them one step closer to advancing further in the playoffs.

How to Watch the Timberwolves vs Mavericks

The Timberwolves vs. Mavericks game will be televised on TNT and is scheduled for Sun 8:00 PM.

Timberwolves vs Mavericks predictions

The Timberwolves are looking to get back in this series, and it's gonna come down to their big guns. I'm expecting a monster game from Anthony Edwards - 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, easy. He's a stud, and he's gonna come out guns blazing. Rudy Gobert's gonna beast on the glass, grabbing 16 rebounds and blocking 3 shots. And let's not forget about Mike Conley, who's gonna dish out 7 assists and score 15 points of his own. If these three show up, Minnesota's got a shot.

On the other side, Luka Doncic is the real deal, and I'm expecting another stat-stuffing performance from him - 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. Kyrie Irving's gonna chip in with 22 points and 5 dimes, and Jaden Hardy's gonna provide some spark off the bench with 12 points and 3 steals. But the X-factor for Dallas is gonna be Dereck Lively, who's gonna grab 9 rebounds and block 2 shots. If he can contain Rudy Gobert, the Mavs are in business.

So, who's gonna take it? I'm gonna go with my gut and say the Mavericks take it 122-115. Luka's too much to handle, and I think the Mavs' bench is deeper than Minnesota's. The Timberwolves are gonna make it a game, but in the end, Doncic's gonna will his team to victory.

Dallas Mavericks injuries

• Luka Doncic (PG): Day-To-Day
• Olivier-Maxence Prosper (F): Out
• Maxi Kleber (PF): Out
• Greg Brown III (PF): Out

Minnesota Timberwolves injuries

• Mike Conley (PG): Day-To-Day
• Jaylen Clark (G): Out