Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: Predictions, odds for Western Conference Finals

The NBA Playoffs conference finals are set, and four teams have earned their place to compete for the two coveted spots in the NBA Finals. The Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves, after their impressive performances, will face off in Game 1 in the Western Conference Finals on Tuesday night, promising a must-watch series.

The Minnesota Timberwolves showcased their resilience with a historic 20-point comeback, defeating the defending NBA champions, the Denver Nuggets, 98-90 in Game 7. This thrilling victory, led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaden McDaniels who both scored 23 points, propelled Minnesota into the conference finals.

The Dallas Mavericks, in a display of unpredictability, overcame the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder 117-116 in Game 6 to win the series 4-2. Despite a slow start and trailing by double digits early, the Mavericks turned the tide with a one-point victory, secured by P.J. Washington's two free throws in the final seconds after being fouled by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

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Western Conference Finals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves predictions

NBA.com: Mavericks in seven

Michael C. Wright writes: "It feels like Minnesota’s time, but that’s the same vibe emanating from Dallas, which is playing in the conference finals for the second time in three seasons. As skilled as Irving and Doncic are, they also possess the experience on this stage that Minnesota lacks. Edwards will undoubtedly put together some electrifying performances. But can he do it for a grueling seven games in consecutive series? Dallas seems to be peaking at the right time."

Yahoo Sports: Timberwolves in six

Jeff Zillgitt writes: "The Timberwolves have discovered an adequate amount of offense in the playoffs, so with their No. 1 defense, it's going to come down to how well they can defend Doncic who was on the Game 6 conference semifinals injury report with a sprained right knee and left ankle soreness."

ESPN: Experts lean towards Timberwolves

Nine out of 15 experts pick the Minnesota Timberwolves to beat the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals. Six experts picked the Mavericks to come out on top.

Western Conference Finals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 1 odds, betting line

The Minnesota Timberwolves are favored to defeat the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1, according to the BetMGM odds.

• Spread: Minnesota (-4.5)

• Moneyline: Minnesota (-189); Dallas (+150)

• Total Over/Under: 207.5

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Western Conference Finals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves schedule

How to watch: Catch select NBA Playoff games on ESPN+

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mavericks vs. Timberwolves: Predictions and odds for Game 1 Wednesday