2024 Playoffs- 3rd Round: Minnesota Timberwolves - Dallas Mavericks- MAVS WIN 4-1!

[SleepingHero]

IF Luka is starting to feel better (big if) then McDaniels won’t be able to stand up to his size and strength. Edwards, however, has a chance to give him the Dort treatment, and I expect MIN to try that some. But, that will come at the expense of the Wolves’ best and only truly consistent offensive creator having less energy on offense.

When Minnesota doubles, they will be BIG doubles, and I imagine that makes life untenable for most ball-handlers, but Luka has the size to see over the top and get the ball out effectively (again, if he’s healthy enough).

If Dallas can force MIN into some switches, nobody on their roster outside of Edwards and McDaniels has any chance of bothering Luka in the slightest (once again, if he’s feeling good and playing well).

On the other end, I feel really good about DJJ, PJ, the Mavs’ team defense slowing down Edwards and especially KAT.

There are definitely ways this could play out other than what I’m describing above, but that’s how I HOPE it will go down.

Mavs in 6.

I don't really think MIN will take the chance of putting Edwards on Luka. If he's overly rambunctious (and he can be at times), him picking up 2 or 3 quick fouls can change an entire game.

Kyrie for whatever reason doesn't get the same calls (even if the contact is there). If anything I think the Mavs will invite an Edwards switch and let Luka work him in the post.