The Dallas Mavericks secured a tight victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves with a final score of 108-105, largely thanks to Luka Doncic’s heroics in the fourth quarter. Doncic’s impressive performance, scoring 15 points in the final period, underscored his ability to deliver under pressure and his crucial role as the Mavericks’ go-to player in clutch situations.
This win gives the Mavericks a significant edge as they look ahead to Game 2, offering them a chance to extend their lead to 2-0 before the series shifts to Dallas. Holding a two-game advantage would be a massive boost, especially as they return to play in front of their home crowd, potentially placing the Timberwolves in a precarious position.
The Timberwolves now face a critical challenge. Going down two games and heading to Dallas could severely impact their chances of recovering in the series. Game 2 becomes a must-win situation for Minnesota to avoid the daunting task of trying to come back from a 0-2 deficit away from home.
Let’s look at the betting odds on both teams for this upcoming matchup.
Bet on Mavericks vs. Timberwolves GM 2
DAL +5.5
MIN -5.5
Mavericks vs. Timberwolves Betting Odds
| Mavericks Moneyline Odds | +188 @ FanDuel |
| Timberwolves Moneyline Odds | -200 @ Betano |
| Over/Under | Over 206.5 points (-110) @ TonyBet Under 207.0 points (+101) @ Pinnacle |
| Spread | Timberwolves -5.5 (-108) @ FanDuel |
| Series Odds | Mavericks -155, Timberwolves +130 @ bet365 |
| Time/Date | May 24, 8:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | Broadcast: TSN 1/3/4/5 Stream: NBA League Pass (How to watch the NBA in Canada?) |
Betting the Dallas Mavericks (9-4 SU, 8-5 ATS, 6-7 o/u)
The Dallas Mavericks’ dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving played crucial roles in clinching a crucial Game 1 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. With Irving’s explosive start, scoring 13 points in the first quarter, and Doncic’s clutch performance in the fourth quarter, the Mavericks demonstrated their ability to dominate at critical moments.
Luka Doncic’s stat line of 33 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, and a block highlighted his all-around impact on the game, showcasing why he’s considered one of the top players in the league. His ability to step up in the fourth quarter, especially in tight games, is a significant asset for the Mavericks. Kyrie Irving’s contribution of 30 points, along with 5 rebounds and 4 assists, complemented Doncic’s efforts perfectly. The synergy between Doncic and Irving creates high-scoring opportunities and poses a formidable challenge for opposing teams due to their offensive prowess.
As the series progresses to Game 2, the Mavericks will again rely on Doncic and Irving to maintain their high level of performance. Their ability to influence the game will be crucial as Dallas aims to take a commanding 2-0 series lead before heading home.
Betting the Minnesota Timberwolves (8-4 SU, 8-4 ATS, 7-5 o/u)
The Minnesota Timberwolves showed considerable effort in a tight game, though they ultimately fell short against the Dallas Mavericks. Jaden McDaniels emerged as a standout performer, leading the team with 24 points, bolstered by his impressive accuracy from beyond the arc, hitting 6 threes.
Anthony Edwards also had a notable all-around game with 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, demonstrating his versatility. Despite his less efficient shooting night (6 of 16 from the field and 5 of 12 from three), Edwards’ ability to impact the game across multiple facets highlights his importance to the team. Karl Anthony Towns struggled with his shooting efficiency, scoring 16 points on 6 for 20 shooting and only making 2 of his 9 three-point attempts. Towns’ performance was uncharacteristically low in terms of shooting, which the team will need him to improve in upcoming games to balance their offensive attack.
As the series heads into Game 2, both Edwards and Towns will be crucial for the Timberwolves’ chances to even the series. Their ability to bounce back from less effective performances will be key. For Towns, finding his rhythm in shooting, and for Edwards, continuing to contribute broadly while improving shot selection will be key. The Timberwolves will need strong performances from their star players to counter the Mavericks’ dynamic duo of Doncic and Irving as the series progresses.
Jaden McDaniels over 12.5 points
-104
Pacers vs. Celtics Injury Concerns
- Maxi Kleber (shoulder) is expected to miss a significant amount of time, if not the entire postseason, due to a full dislocation of his right AC joint.
- Olivier-Maxence Prosper (ankle) is out for Wednesday’s Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals against the Timberwolves.
- Mike Conley (Achilles) is questionable for Game 2 against Dallas.
NBA Betting Trends
- In the four times the two teams played each other this season, the game went under on total points in three of them.
- Game 1 cleared the over on total points, with a line of 206.5 and a total of 213.
NBA Player Prop Trends
- Kyrie Irving has recorded under 2.5 threes in his last 4 out of 5 games. His line is at -125 to record under 2.5 threes in Game 2 against the Timberwolves.
- Dereck Lively III has recorded over 7.5 points in his last 4 out of 5 games. His line is at -135 to record over 7.5 points against the Timberwolves.
- Jaden McDaniels has recorded over 1.5 threes in his last 3 games. His line is at -155 to record over 1.5 threes against the Mavericks.
Mavericks vs. Timberwolves Predictions
- Jaden McDaniels over 12.5 Points: -115. Jaden McDaniels has been on a hot streak lately, scoring 20+ points in his last three games. He has also seen an increase in the number of field goals attempted recently. Given his current form and increased offensive role, expect McDaniels to score over 12.5 points in Game 2.
- Over 207.0 Total Points: -110. During the regular season, the total points line was surpassed in all the games between these teams. This trend continued in Game 1, where the total points reached 213. Given this consistent pattern and historical scoring, expect the total points to go over in Game 2 as well.
