The Dallas Mavericks triumphed in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, edging out the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 108-105 victory on Wednesday. The star of the game was Luka Doncic, whose performance was both electrifying and decisive. However, Doncic himself acknowledged the prowess of the Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards, admitting that Edwards outshone him in some aspects.
“Athletic wise, we’re similar. Nah I’m kidding. He’s an unbelievable player.”
— Luka Doncic on Anthony Edwards
(via @GrantAfseth) pic.twitter.com/m9kcMGAR3Q
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 22, 2024
The game was a tight contest, with the Timberwolves taking a 102-98 lead in the fourth quarter after a remarkable 24-foot three-pointer from Edwards. But Doncic responded with a spectacular display of skill and determination, scoring seven consecutive points to ignite a 13-0 run by the Mavericks. This surge gave Dallas a 97-89 lead, which they managed to maintain until the final buzzer.
Apart from Doncic, Kyrie Irving played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ win. Irving broke out for 30 points, proving instrumental against Minnesota’s formidable defense. The partnership of Doncic and Irving has been so stunning throughout the season that it even garnered praise from Trae Young.
Paul Pierce Compares Luka Doncic to LeBron James
While Luka Doncic has been busy showering praise on his teammates and opponents, he might not fully realize the extent to which his play has stunned NBA fans and legends. Following the Mavericks’ impressive win in the Western Conference Finals, former NBA star Paul Pierce expressed his admiration for Doncic’s extraordinary skills.
During his appearance on “Undisputed,” Pierce did not hesitate to draw a remarkable comparison, referring to Doncic as the “European LeBron James.”
Paul Pierce on Luka Doncic:
“He’s probably the European LeBron James because of the way he can score, the way he can pass, the way he rebounds, and the way he controls the game. He’s a less athletic LeBron.”
(via @undisputed) pic.twitter.com/XgJ4yr0eUq
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 22, 2024
“He’s probably the European LeBron James because of the way he can score, the way he can pass, the way he rebounds, and the way he controls the game. He’s a less athletic LeBron,” Pierce said.
This high praise from Pierce came after Doncic’s pivotal performance against the Timberwolves. He had 15 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter. This late-game heroics nearly matched the total game score of the Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards, who managed 19 points in the entire game.
The Mavericks’ victory sets the stage for Game 2, which is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday in Minneapolis.
