The Mavericks dominated inside, outscoring the Timberwolves 62-38 in the paint, which helped offset their poor 6-for-25 shooting from beyond the arc. DALLAS MAVERICKS PHOTO
Luka Doncic spearheaded a strong finish as the Dallas Mavericks edged out the Minnesota Timberwolves, 108-105, in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals at the Target Center on Wednesday night.
Despite not being the favorites, the Mavericks seized home-court advantage with this promising start.
Doncic scored 15 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter, while Kyrie Irving added 24 of his 30 points in the first half, propelling Dallas to victory.
The Mavericks dominated inside, outscoring the Timberwolves 62-38 in the paint, which helped offset their poor 6-for-25 shooting from beyond the arc.
Jaden McDaniels had his third consecutive 20-plus-point game, finishing with 24 points for Minnesota. However, Anthony Edwards, who was named to the All-NBA second team before the game, was held to 19 points due to a strong team defensive effort from Dallas. Karl-Anthony Towns needed a late surge to reach 16 points, shooting just 6-for-20 from the field.
Edwards, who went scoreless in the third quarter, contributed 11 rebounds and eight assists.
Naz Reid scored 15 points and Kyle Anderson added 11 off the bench for the Timberwolves.
Game 2 will be hosted by Minnesota on Friday night.
Meanwhile, the NBA revealed the three 2023-2024 All-NBA teams, highlighting the league's top performers of the season.
All-NBA First Team
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
All-NBA Second Team
Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers
Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers
All-NBA Third Team
Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns
Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings
These selections honor the players' exceptional performances throughout the season, with notable inclusions across all three teams. Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo continue to solidify their places among the league's elite on the first team, while emerging stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander make their mark.
Veterans like LeBron James and Stephen Curry maintain their high standards, earning spots on the third team. The recognition reflects a blend of established talent and rising stars, showcasing the depth and diversity of skill in the NBA.
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