DALLAS, TX – DECEMBER 25: On December 25, 2024, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves dribbles the ball during the game versus the Dallas Mavericks. A NOTE TO THE USER: The user specifically recognizes and
Dallas (AP) After Mavericks star Luka Doncic departed the game due to a strained left calf, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated Dallas 105-99 on Christmas Day, led by 26 points from Anthony Edwards.
Late in the second quarter on Wednesday, Doncic pulled up lame while running a play, ruining a rematch of Dallas’ victory in the Western Conference finals the previous season. After the Mavs nearly eliminated a 28-point deficit in the second half, things got wild.
After Dallas took a timeout, the five-time All-Star hobbled off the court and never returned to the defensive end. After missing two games due to a left heel injury, it was Doncic’s second game back.
After the Mavs fell behind by 28 points late in the third quarter, Kyrie Irving scored 39 points but missed a 3-pointer that would have given them the lead in the closing seconds. Doncic scored 14 points.
Rudy Gobert finished with 10 rebounds and 14 points.
Takeaways
Timberwolves: After being acquired from the New York Knicks in a blockbuster trade, Julius Randle made his debut appearance in Dallas versus his home team. He finished with eight assists, 10 rebounds, and 23 points.
Mavericks: They trimmed a 28-point lead from the end of the third quarter to two points in the fourth quarter, ultimately shaking off the effects of the Doncic injury.
Key moment
When Doncic pulled up lame, everything changed. The Mavs were playing their seventh straight Christmas game because of the five-time All-Star.
Key stat
Timberwolves: In the three games leading up to their third-ever Christmas game, Minnesota gave up an average of 121 points on 50% shooting. The Dallas lead was mostly due to defense.
Mavericks: Klay Thompson moved up to sixth place on the NBA career chart after making four of ten three-pointers. Miller scored 2,560 points, while Thompson scored 2,562.
Up next
Minnesota on Friday in Houston. Phoenix vs. Dallas on Friday.
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