Doncic helps Mavericks edge Timberwolves in Game 1

The Dallas Mavericks secured a narrow 108-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, with performances from Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic resembling a relay race.

Irving set the pace with 24 first-half points, keeping Dallas competitive. Doncic then took charge in the second half, scoring 15 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter on Wednesday night in Minneapolis.

63 points for LuKai 🔥🔥#OneForDallas #MFFL pic.twitter.com/d7zV4Z6Rz0

— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) May 23, 2024

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Irving concluded the game with 30 points, shooting 12-for-23 from the field. Supporting him were Daniel Gafford, who contributed 10 points and nine rebounds, and Dereck Lively II, who added nine points and 11 rebounds.

Jaden McDaniels led the Timberwolves with 24 points, making six of nine attempts from beyond the arc. Anthony Edwards recorded a near triple-double with 19 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 16 points.

The Timberwolves held an eight-point lead in the final minute of the first half, but Irving’s five points in the last 22 seconds closed the gap to three. He capped the scoring with a three-point play, converting a basket and a free throw with 0.7 seconds left.

Both teams will meet again for Game 2 on Friday night.