The Minnesota Timberwolves kept their NBA Finals hopes alive with a crucial 105-100 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with a game-high 29 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed significantly with his long-range shooting. The win on Tuesday night forces a Game 5, to be played at home on Thursday. Should the Timberwolves win the series, they would become the first team in NBA history to advance after trailing 3-0 in a playoff series.
Edwards emphasized the team’s immediate goal post-game: “We just wanted to get one game and extend the series. I’ve never been swept in my career. I didn’t want to get swept. Not on their home court, hearing their fans talk trash all day.”
Mavericks’ Challenge
Luka Doncic posted a triple-double with 28 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists for the Mavericks. Despite leading the series 3-0 and having won the first two games in Minneapolis, Dallas could not close out the series at home.
Game Dynamics
The Timberwolves took an early lead, and despite a balanced battle throughout the second half, Towns’ 3-pointer at 5:41 remaining gave Minnesota a 92-90 lead they never relinquished. Towns followed with another crucial 3-pointer, extending the lead.
Closing Moments
Doncic had a chance to even the score but missed a critical 3-pointer with 3:18 to go. Subsequent baskets by Towns and Edwards sealed the win for Minnesota. Doncic took responsibility, saying, “[I] didn’t give enough energy.”
Final Plays
A late 3-pointer by Doncic brought Dallas within three points, but he missed the ensuing free throw. Naz Reid’s layup with 11.3 seconds left clinched the victory for the Timberwolves.
Coach’s Confidence
Timberwolves coach Chris Finch praised his team’s resilience: “We’d never lost three in a row until earlier in the playoffs. We’ve never lost four in a row. The guys responded. Fun team to coach because they always believe they can win, no matter what.”
Series Outlook
The Timberwolves, who had been narrowly outscored in the closing moments of the first three games, now boast a 3-0 record in elimination games this postseason. The series was tied at 49 at halftime, with both Edwards and Doncic scoring 17 points each. Minnesota led 78-73 going into the fourth quarter.
Doncic’s Focus
Doncic remained determined: “They won one game. We’ve got to focus on the next one.”
