In a crucial Game 4 showdown, the Minnesota Timberwolves managed to stave off elimination, securing a 105-100 victory against the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night in the Western Conference finals.
Karl-Anthony Towns emerged as a key contributor for the Timberwolves, particularly in the second half, tallying 25 points, with 20 of those coming after halftime. Anthony Edwards showcased his versatility with an impressive stat line of 29 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists.
The win keeps Minnesota’s hopes alive as they make their first appearance in the conference finals in two decades, marking only the second time in the franchise’s 35-season history.
With the series now at 3-1 in favor of the Mavericks, the third-seeded Timberwolves are set to return home for Game 5 on Thursday night, aiming to further challenge the fifth-seeded Dallas team.
Despite a strong performance from Dallas’ star player Luka Doncic, who recorded his sixth triple-double of the playoffs with 28 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, the Mavericks struggled to find their rhythm offensively. Doncic, alongside teammate Kyrie Irving, collectively shot 13 of 39 from the field.
Throughout the series, the Timberwolves have consistently held leads in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, but Game 4 marked their first successful closeout.
Towns’ offensive presence was notable, particularly in the fourth quarter, where he managed to contribute crucial points despite facing foul trouble earlier in the game.
Minnesota coach Chris Finch’s technical foul added a dramatic element to the game, highlighting the team’s intensity and determination to avoid elimination.
The Timberwolves’ victory prevents them from becoming the 16th team out of 21 to be swept after losing the first three games of a series at home.
Key contributors for Minnesota included Mike Conley with 14 points and Rudy Gobert with 13 points and 10 rebounds.
Jaden Hardy’s performance for the Mavericks, including 13 points, helped keep the game competitive, with pivotal moments of lead changes occurring in the fourth quarter.
As the series progresses, both teams will aim to capitalize on their strengths and make strategic adjustments to secure a spot in the NBA Finals.
