Minnesota Timberwolves Rout Dallas Mavericks 120-96

The Minnesota Timberwolves hosted the Dallas Mavericks on Monday. The Timberwolves routed the Mavericks 120-96 at the Target Center. Minnesota improved to 9-5, while Dallas fell to 4-11.

Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Dallas Mavericks Starters

Monday’s game was a lopsided matchup but provided an opportunity for either team to win. But there appeared to be no ill will as Anthony Edwards and D’Angelo Russell, who played for the Timberwolves from 2020 to 2023, exchanged pleasantries before tip-off.

Minnesota’s starting lineup featured Donte DiVincenzo, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, and Rudy Goebert. Minnesota ruled out Terrence Shannon Jr. (foot).

Dallas’ starting lineup featured Brandon Williams, Max Christie, Cooper Flagg, PJ Washington, and Moussa Cisse. Dallas ruled out Kyrie Irving (knee), Anthony Davis (calf), Dereck Lively II (knee), Daniel Gafford (ankle), Dante Exum (knee), and Ryan Nembhard (knee).

Timberwolves vs. Mavericks Recap

Monday’s game was a rivalry matchup. Both teams possess diverse strategies and player dynamics. Minnesota is known for its ability to overpower defenses, while Dallas excels in offensive effectiveness.

The first quarter started slowly but gradually became a high-scoring affair. Dallas had an empty possession, but Cisse managed to get the loose ball back and get on the board in his first NBA start. DiVincenzo dazzled the home crowd with a deep three-pointer. Minnesota took a 34-21 lead to end the first.

The second quarter resembled the first quarter. Washington nailed a three-pointer. Naz Reid powered through contact and threw down a dunk in the front of the rim. Reid finished the first half with 19 points. Minnesota took a 61-44 lead into halftime.

The home team applied pressure in the third quarter. McDaniels nailed a three-pointer to improve to a perfect 3-for-3. Minnesota took a 98-66 lead through three quarters. Minnesota reached the 100-point plateau to open the fourth quarter. The road team picked up the pace but failed to get out of the abyss. Minnesota won 120-96 in regulation.

Final Thoughts

Minnesota concludes a three-game homestand against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Central. The game will be broadcast on FDSN.

Dallas returns home to open a three-game homestand against the New York Knicks on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. Central. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.