2024 Western Conference Finals: Timberwolves vs. Mavericks (Analysis, Comparison, Prediction)

Minnesota Timberwolves: Mike Conley Jr., Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Karl-Anthony Towns, Rudy Gobert

Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Derrick Jones Jr., PJ Washington, Dereck Lively II

The Minnesota Timberwolves boast a formidable starting lineup with Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way. Edwards, the rising star of the Timberwolves, will lead their offensive charge, supported by the dominant inside presence of Towns and Gobert. Conley and McDaniels provide excellent defense and floor spacing, enhancing the team's versatility. With three All-Stars in their prime, the Timberwolves possess a wealth of experience and talent.

The Dallas Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, counter with their own star power. Doncic's playmaking and scoring, combined with Irving's scoring prowess, form a potent offensive duo. Derrick Jones Jr., PJ Washington, and Dereck Lively II bring athleticism and three-point shooting, with Washington shooting over 40.0% from beyond the arc in the playoffs. Washington serves as a reliable third option behind Doncic and Irving.

Defensively, Jaden McDaniels is tasked with defending Doncic, a critical matchup that could shape the series. This assignment allows Edwards and Towns to focus more on their offensive game, giving the Timberwolves a slight edge in overall balance and defensive strategy.

Advantage: Minnesota Timberwolves

Bench

Minnesota Timberwolves: Jordan McLaughlin, Monte Morris, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Kyle Anderson, Naz Reid, Luka Garza

Dallas Mavericks: Tim Hardaway Jr., Dante Exum, Maxi Kleber, Josh Green, Jaden Hardy, Daniel Gafford

The Minnesota Timberwolves' bench is anchored by Naz Reid, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year, who brings versatility as a scorer, defender, and athletic presence. Reid's ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and impact games with his athleticism makes him a game-changer. Nickeil Alexander-Walker provides additional scoring punch and defensive capabilities, while Kyle Anderson brings a high basketball IQ and playmaking ability.

On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks lack a standout player like Reid off the bench but compensate with depth. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Dante Exum provide floor spacing and scoring threats, Josh Green and Jaden Hardy bring defensive intensity, and Daniel Gafford adds rim protection. The Mavericks' bench might not have the star power of Reid, but their depth allows them to rotate more bodies and maintain defensive pressure.

Overall, the Timberwolves possess more top-end talent with Reid, giving them a potential edge in bench production. However, the Mavericks' deeper bench could prove crucial in wearing down opponents and providing different defensive looks throughout the series.

Advantage: Even

Chris Finch vs. Jason Kidd

Chris Finch, despite coaching from the sidelines due to an Achilles injury and with Micah Nori taking charge, has been instrumental in Minnesota's success. Under their guidance, the Timberwolves have boasted the NBA's number-one defense this season and have effectively utilized the pairing of Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert. Their coaching prowess was evident in their series against the Nuggets, where they defeated the reigning champions.

On the other hand, Jason Kidd has managed to integrate Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving effectively, showcasing his ability to handle rotations and manage star-studded lineups. However, Finch and Nori have been more impressive in terms of coaching this season, particularly with their defensive strategies and player development. This gives them a slight edge over Kidd and the Mavericks in the coaching department heading into the Western Conference Finals matchup. 

Advantage: Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota Timberwolves Advantages

The Minnesota Timberwolves come into the Western Conference Finals with a formidable lineup led by their Big Three of Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Rudy Gobert. This trio provides a potent combination of scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess, supported by a strong defensive unit featuring players like McDaniels, Alexander-Walker, and Reid.

Edwards, in particular, has emerged as one of the most electrifying stars in the NBA. Under the guidance of coach Chris Finch, the Timberwolves have developed into an elite defensive team with the ability to shut down opponents and control the pace of the game. Their depth and star power make them a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference Finals.

Dallas Mavericks Advantages

On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks boast a dynamic duo in Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, a tandem that can dominate any series. Doncic, with his playmaking and scoring abilities, is a constant threat throughout the game, while Irving's clutch performances make him a formidable closer. Doncic can be a game-changer singlehandedly and is posting an incredible 27.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game in the playoffs this year.

The Mavericks have also benefited from the shooting of P.J. Washington, whose three-point shooting has been crucial in their playoff run. With this combination of star power and shooting prowess, the Mavericks have the tools to challenge any opponent, making them a serious contender in the Western Conference Finals.

Who Is The Better Team In The Western Conference Finals?

This Western Conference Finals battle will come down to which stars perform at a higher level. Anthony Edwards will meet what Luka Doncic will do in terms of raw impact, even if the Slovenian will have better all-around numbers. Towns and Gobert will need to dominate inside against the thinner Lively II and Gafford, and it is likely they will do that. Kyrie Irving will be the difficult matchup because McDaniels will have his hands full with Doncic, and he could have a big series.

If Washington can continue shooting over 40% and Doncic plays like the best player in the series, the Mavericks can win in seven games. However, the Timberwolves have more star power, an excellent trio of big men, and a hellacious defense. Riding the momentum of defeating the reigning champion Denver Nuggets, the Timberwolves will have the fuel to defeat the Mavericks in six games.

Prediction: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Dallas Mavericks 4-2