The Dallas Mavericks are headed back to the NBA Finals for the first time in 13 years! The Mavs completed their "gentleman's sweep" of the Timberwolves on Thursday night in Game 5 of the NBA's 2024 Western Conference Finals, beating Minnesota 124-103. In a complete 180-degree turn from the four previous games in the series, this final matchup was an absolute blowout. "Luka magic" was in no short display. Doncic torched Minnesota from the opening tip, starting the game 8-of-11 from the field and 4-of-6 from 3-point range for 20 points in the first quarter, outscoring the Timberwolves entire team (19)! And Irving, who has grown his career record in NBA Playoff closeout games to a staggering 15-1, turned up his play in the second quarter, dropping 15 points in the frame. Irving finished with 36 points, four rebounds and five assists. Doncic matched Irving's output in scoring, registering 36 on the night to go with 10 boards and 10 assists. Doncic averages 34.2 points per game following a loss in the playoffs, the highest mark in NBA history. Minnesota's double threat of Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns led the team again in Game 5. Towns put up 28 points and 12 rebounds in the game. Edwards scored 28 points, grabbed nine boards and dished out six assists. The Mavericks' close-out ability was just too much for Minnesota to handle. FULL STORY: https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nba/mavericks/dallas-mavericks-returning-to-nba-finals-sweep-minnesota-timberwolves-2024-western-conference-finals/287-5d07d89c-9553-43b5-8203-ea5e7edbc4dd