Timberwolves’ Winning Streak Against Lower-Ranked Teams Continues with Blowout Victory Over Mavericks
While the Timberwolves’ performance against likely playoff teams has frustrated the fan base this season, Minnesota’s ability to dispose of cellar dwellers has been impressive. Two days after a disappointing loss to Denver, the Wolves blew out a short-handed Dallas team, 120-96 at Target Center.
The Mavericks, who were on the second half of a back-to-back, were down five rotation players. The Wolves showed them no mercy. Not only has Minnesota taken advantage of its soft opening schedule by devouring every cupcake that’s come its way, it’s done so in convincing fashion. That frequently wasn’t the case for these Wolves in past seasons. But their ability to beat teams they have a clear talent advantage over has propped up their position in the Western Conference standings through 14 games. Minnesota is now 9-0 this season against teams with losing records.
Key Players Shine in Blowout Victory
Naz Reid is finding his rhythm for Minnesota — and it’s largely stemmed from his energy on the glass. Reid scored 22 points on Monday on a strong shooting performance, but he also grabbed 12 rebounds to pace the Wolves on the glass. It’s the second time hitting 12 boards in three games for Reid, who’s averaging 18 points a game in that span. “I think once I take care of all that (extra) stuff, that’s when all the other stuff, like scoring, all that type of stuff comes easy,” Reid said.
Jaylen Clark instilled a defensive tenacity his teammates picked up on. Dallas, who’s short on ball handlers, didn’t handle the pressure well. The Mavericks turned the ball over 19 times Monday, which directly resulted in 24 Wolves points. Clark was harassing Mavericks guards in the backcourt even in the fourth quarter of Monday’s blowout. “He’s like a dog chasing a car. He just keeps going and that’s how plays,” Wolves coach Chris Finch said.
Sharpshooting and Defensive Prowess
Anthony Edwards is struggling with his outside shot at the moment, but Minnesota has hardly missed his outside production, thanks to the sharpshooting of Jaden McDaniels. The defensive stopper went 3 for 4 from deep against Dallas, putting his season-long number at north of 50%. That’s been a bugaboo at times throughout McDaniels’ career, but his confidence and results do not appear to be an aberration. Donte DiVincenzo shoots with McDaniels after practice each day and noted his improved confidence from beyond the arc.
McDaniels’ ability to hit the long ball solves plenty of potential spacing issues for Minnesota. His sharpshooting, combined with the team’s defensive prowess, has been a key factor in their success against lower-ranked teams. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Timberwolves continue to perform against tougher opponents. For now, they can take pride in their impressive record against teams with losing records. Read more about the Timberwolves’ victory over the Mavericks Here
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