DALLAS, TEXAS — The Dallas Mavericks lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves, 105-99, in their eighth Christmas Day appearance, dropping their record on the holiday to 4-4. Despite entering the fourth quarter down by 21, the Mavericks’ defense limited Minnesota to just 15 points, tied for the fewest points the Timberwolves have scored in a quarter this season.
Key Performances:
- Kyrie Irving led all scorers with 39 points (14-27 FG, 5-14 3FG), adding 5 rebounds and 2 assists. His 39 points rank as the second-most he’s scored on Christmas and the second-highest by a Maverick on the holiday.
- Klay Thompson, in his first Christmas game with Dallas, tallied 14 points and passed Reggie Miller for 5th all-time in career 3-pointers made (2,562). He also recorded his 15th career game with 2+ steals and 2+ blocks.
- Luka Dončić exited late in the second quarter with a left calf strain, finishing with 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists.
For the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards matched the franchise Christmas Day scoring record with 26 points, while Julius Randle contributed 23 points, 10 rebounds, and a season-high 8 assists.
The Mavericks’ defense showed resilience, but the Timberwolves’ balanced attack secured the win.
