Can Minnesota stop Flagg without Edwards? Minnesota Timberwolves vs Dallas Mavericks prediction – 13.11.2026
Minnesota Timberwolves
Dallas Mavericks
On November 13, the Minnesota Timberwolves will host the Dallas Mavericks at Target Center in an intriguing NBA Western Conference matchup. Both teams have started the 2026/27 season strongly, with Minnesota holding an 8-3 record and Dallas sitting at 7-4. The hosts have adapted impressively to life without Anthony Edwards, while the Mavericks arrive on a three-game winning streak, powered by the outstanding form of Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Defensive stability despite the loss of their leader
Minnesota have responded remarkably well to a significant injury setback. Chris Finch's team have won four consecutive games, defeating Milwaukee (112-100), Houston (117-107), New Orleans (115-109), and Utah (115-100). Their latest performance against the Jazz demonstrated the balance that has become the team's biggest strength.
Ayo Dosunmu led the Timberwolves with 26 points against Utah, while LaMelo Ball contributed 24 points and five assists. Rudy Gobert added 10 points and 15 rebounds, once again demonstrating his importance in controlling the paint. Jaden McDaniels and Jonathan Kuminga also provide the athleticism, versatility, and defensive intensity needed to compete against talented opponents.
The numbers highlight Minnesota's impressive start. The Timberwolves average 118.1 points per game while allowing just 107.0, giving them one of the NBA's strongest scoring differentials. Their defensive rating of 106.1 ranks first in the league, and their average of 48.8 rebounds reflects their dominance on the boards.
However, personnel problems remain significant. Anthony Edwards, who averaged 33.3 points across his first four appearances, is unavailable after undergoing surgery on his right knee. Donte DiVincenzo is also sidelined following an Achilles injury. Nevertheless, Ball and Dosunmu have taken on greater offensive responsibility, while Finch has successfully maintained the team's defensive structure.
Dallas Mavericks: Flagg and Irving are becoming a dangerous partnership
Dallas have also found their rhythm after an inconsistent start. Under new head coach Dusty May, who replaced Jason Kidd during the offseason, the Mavericks have won three consecutive games against Utah (112-100), Brooklyn (130-93), and Indiana (125-122).
Their latest victory was particularly impressive from an offensive perspective. Cooper Flagg delivered a spectacular performance against Indiana, scoring 43 points, collecting 10 rebounds, and providing six assists. Kyrie Irving contributed another 35 points, with the duo combining for 78 of Dallas' 125 points.
Flagg is rapidly establishing himself as the team's offensive leader, while Irving's return gives Dallas an experienced playmaker capable of deciding close games. P.J. Washington provides additional scoring and defensive versatility, and Daniel Gafford remains an important presence around the basket.
However, the Mavericks also have injury concerns. Dereck Lively II remains sidelined with a foot injury, limiting their options in the paint. Sergio de Larrea and Tarik Biberovic are also unavailable, while Morez Johnson Jr. is dealing with a leg problem and his participation remains uncertain.
These absences could be especially problematic against Minnesota's physical frontcourt. With Gobert protecting the rim and the Timberwolves possessing several versatile defenders, Dallas will need another exceptional performance from Flagg and Irving to maintain their winning momentum.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Minnesota have won four consecutive NBA games, while Dallas have won their last three.
- The Timberwolves allow an average of 107.0 points per game, compared with Dallas' 110.3.
- Minnesota have won all four meetings against Dallas during the 2025/26 regular season.
- Their most recent encounter ended in a convincing 124-94 victory for Minnesota on March 30, 2026.
- Dallas' Flagg and Irving combined for 78 points in their latest victory against Indiana.
Prediction
This matchup promises an interesting contrast between two teams playing with confidence. Dallas possess enough offensive firepower to challenge almost any opponent, and the combination of Flagg and Irving makes the Mavericks particularly dangerous in the closing stages.
However, Minnesota look more balanced across the entire rotation. Even without Edwards, Finch's team have maintained an excellent defensive standard, while Ball and Dosunmu have successfully compensated for the absence of their leading scorer.
The battle in the paint could prove decisive. Gobert's rebounding and rim protection give Minnesota an important advantage against a Dallas side missing Lively, while McDaniels and Kuminga have the physical tools to make life difficult for Flagg.
Dallas should remain competitive thanks to the individual quality of their stars, but Minnesota's home-court advantage, superior defensive organization, and greater strength on the boards make the Timberwolves the more convincing choice. I expect the hosts to control the decisive stretches and secure another victory by a comfortable margin.
Prediction: Minnesota Timberwolves (-5.5) handicap.
