Towns, Edwards lift Wolves over Mavs 105-100 to avoid sweep in West finals

DALLAS, TX – Karl-Anthony Towns discovered his groove just when the Timberwolves needed it most, clinching a vital victory in the Western Conference finals against the Mavericks. With renewed vigor, they now return to Minnesota, aiming to further tilt the scales against Dallas.

Towns showcased his brilliance, igniting for 20 of his 25 points in the second half, propelling the Wolves to a tense 105-100 triumph on Tuesday night, staving off the threat of a sweep. Anthony Edwards was a force to be reckoned with, tallying 29 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, keeping the Wolves’ dreams alive in their first conference finals appearance in two decades. Game 5 looms large on Thursday night.

In a remarkable turnaround, Towns, who had struggled with his shooting throughout the series, found his mark, converting 9 of 13 attempts from the field, including four crucial 3-pointers, despite battling foul trouble.

Meanwhile, Luka Doncic mustered a valiant effort for the Mavericks, notching his sixth triple-double of the playoffs with 28 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists. However, Doncic and his partner Kyrie Irving faltered, shooting a combined 13 of 39 from the field, thwarting Dallas’ bid for a series sweep.

The Wolves, determined to rewrite the narrative, seized control in the decisive moments of the game. Towns delivered pivotal 3-pointers, propelling Minnesota into the lead with just under six minutes remaining, while Edwards’ clutch jumper extended their advantage.

Despite late drama, including Edwards’ foul on Doncic’s 3-point attempt, the Wolves held firm, securing a crucial victory to extend the series. Towns’ rhythm was palpable, driving him to a standout performance until his eventual foul-out in the closing minutes.

With the series far from over, the Wolves aim to defy the odds once more, seeking to become just the fourth team in history to force a six-game series after trailing 3-0. Jaden Hardy’s spirited effort for the Mavericks injected tension, but ultimately, the Wolves prevailed, capitalizing on their offensive efficiency to thwart Dallas’ aspirations.

As both teams regroup for the next showdown, injuries loom large, with the Mavericks missing rookie center Dereck Lively II, sidelined by a neck injury sustained in Game 3. Despite the return of Maxi Kleber, the Wolves exploited the absence of a key rim protector, Daniel Gafford, shooting a series-best 53% from the field to keep their championship dreams alive.