The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Dallas Mavericks 133-94 on Thursday at the Target Center, securing their fifth victory in the most lopsided win of their season.
How did Minnesota dominate the game?
The team extended its advantage by outscoring Dallas 36-17 in the third quarter, eventually reaching a 103-69 lead heading into the final frame. The Timberwolves led by as many as 44 points in the second half, with rookie Isaiah Evans pushing the lead to 129-85 with a finger-roll layup with 2:47 remaining.
The Timberwolves finished the night shooting 57.8% (52 of 90) from the field and 46.9% (15 of 32) from 3-point range, while holding the Mavericks to 37.2% (35 of 94) overall shooting and 27.1% (13 of 48) from beyond the arc. Minnesota also dominated the paint, outscoring Dallas 74-42. The game was defined by the Timberwolves’ ability to execute throughout the contest, including a 17-4 surge out of the locker room to start the second half.
Which players led the Timberwolves?
Bones Hyland scored 24 points on 7-for-10 shooting off the bench, while Ayo Dosunmu added 18 points on 8-for-15 shooting. Jaden McDaniels contributed 16 points and nine rebounds in the win.
The team’s interior presence was highlighted when Ball threw an alley-oop pass to Rudy Gobert to extend the lead to 84-56 with 8:02 left in the third quarter.
What was the impact on the Mavericks?
Dallas saw its three-game winning streak snapped in Minneapolis. Cooper Flagg, who had scored 43 points in his previous outing against the Indiana Pacers, was held to 12 points and seven rebounds. Naji Marshall added 13 points off the bench for Dallas.
The Mavericks’ roster faced several availability challenges, as forward Morez Johnson Jr. was a game-time decision with a lower-leg injury, while center Dereck Lively II (foot), forward Tarik Biberovic (heel) and forward Sergio De Larrea (knee) were out for the game.
When do the teams play next?
The Mavericks are scheduled to visit Cleveland on Saturday. The Timberwolves will remain at home to host Chicago on the same day.
Earlier coverage: Minnesota Timberwolves Rout Dallas Mavericks 133-94, AP Reports