Mavs Miss Luka and Kleber in Short-Handed Loss to Timberwolves

A Tale of Two Halves

The Dallas Mavericks' shorthanded squad suffered a 124-96 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night. The loss dropped the Mavs to 15-14 on the season, while the Timberwolves improved to 17-13.

The Mavs were without Luka Dončić (ankle) and Maxi Kleber (hamstring), two of their most important players. The absences were felt on both ends of the court, as the Mavs struggled to generate offense and contain the Timberwolves' attack.

The Mavs shot just 38.3% from the field and 29.2% from three-point range. They also committed 18 turnovers, leading to 22 points for the Timberwolves.

The Timberwolves, on the other hand, shot 50.6% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range. They also dominated the rebounding battle, outrebounding the Mavs 57-33.

Different Game Without Luka

Dončić is the Mavs' leading scorer and playmaker, and his absence was a major blow. Without him, the Mavs had no one who could consistently create offense for themselves or others.

Spencer Dinwiddie led the Mavs with 21 points, but he was inefficient, shooting just 8-of-20 from the field. Jalen Brunson added 18 points, but he also struggled with his shot, going 6-of-17 from the field.

The Mavs' bench was also unable to provide much help. Reggie Bullock was the only bench player to score in double figures, with 10 points.

Timberwolves Take Advantage

The Timberwolves took advantage of the Mavs' struggles, putting together a complete performance on both ends of the court.

Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 27 points and 13 rebounds. Anthony Edwards added 26 points, and D'Angelo Russell had 24 points.

The Timberwolves' defense was also impressive, holding the Mavs to just 96 points. They forced the Mavs into tough shots all night and did a good job of limiting their second-chance opportunities.

Conclusion

The Mavs' loss to the Timberwolves was a disappointing one, but it's important to remember that they were playing without two of their most important players. The Mavs will need to regroup and find a way to win without Dončić and Kleber if they want to stay in contention for a playoff spot.

The Mavs' next game is on Sunday night against the New Orleans Pelicans. The Pelicans are also without their star player, Zion Williamson, so the Mavs will have a chance to bounce back and get back on track.

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