Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving Swap Roles in Mavericks' Game 1 Victory Against T'Wolves

Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving have proven to be an unstoppable duo for the Dallas Mavericks throughout their playoff journey this season.

Now, advancing to the Western Conference Finals after defeating the Clippers and Thunder, the Mavericks move one step closer to the NBA Finals following a significant 108-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 to kick off the series.

A notable shift in their performance in this game was the role reversal between Dončić and Irving in each half.

During this postseason, Dončić has often dominated in the first half, with Irving taking charge as the closer in the second. However, Wednesday night saw Irving setting the tone early on while Dončić stepped up to seal the victory against Minnesota.

1-2 Punch of Dončić and Irving

Dončić showcased his all-around brilliance with a game-high 33 points, eight assists, six rebounds, three steals, and a block. He shot 12-of-26 from the field and 3-of-10 from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Irving contributed 30 points, five rebounds, and four assists on 12-of-23 shooting overall.

The first half saw Irving shine brightly, scoring 24 points on an impressive 11-of-14 shooting, while Dončić contributed 14 points. Despite Irving's efforts, Dallas trailed 62-59 at halftime.

However, the second half, particularly the fourth quarter, belonged to Dončić. He scored 19 points in the final 24 minutes, including 15 in the last 12, sealing the victory for the Mavericks.

Despite Dallas struggling from three-point range, shooting 6-of-25 for the game, Dončić hit two crucial three-pointers, providing the team with the necessary cushion to hold off Minnesota.

Dončić commended Irving for his performance in the first half, which kept the game close and thwarted Minnesota's advances. With the victory secured, the Mavericks are now focused on preparing for Game 2.

“That’s only one… we’ve got three more to go.”

Luka on the Game 1 win with @ALaForce  pic.twitter.com/pV20s3ysC7

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 23, 2024

What's Next For Mavericks

Dallas's victory in Game 1 was a significant milestone, marking their first win in a series opener under head coach Jason Kidd after five consecutive losses. It also represents their first Game 1 triumph since the first-round series against the Los Angeles Clippers in 2021.

With three wins needed to secure a spot in the NBA Finals, the Mavericks aim to reach the championship round for the first time since their title-winning campaign in 2011, led by franchise icon Dirk Nowitzki. Achieving this feat would be a monumental accomplishment for Dončić and Irving, propelling the team back to the pinnacle of the league.

Dallas will strive to extend their series lead to 2-0 when they face the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 on May 24 at 8:30 p.m. EST.