In a thrilling Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Western Conference finals, the dynamic duo of Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving powered the Dallas Mavericks to a hard-fought 108-105 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. As the teams gear up for Game 2 at Target Center, there are several key factors to watch out for.

One notable aspect of Dallas' game has been their improved transition offense. Despite being known as a slower-paced team in the past, the Mavericks showcased their ability to score in transition during the regular season. They ranked eighth in fast-break points per game, demonstrating their effectiveness on the fast break. Irving played a significant role in this uptick in fast-break frequency, as seen in Game 1.

Irving exploited Minnesota's potential fatigue from their grueling Game 7 against the Nuggets in the previous round. Recognizing the Wolves might be a step slow in reacting, Irving attacked the paint relentlessly. He capitalized on defensive lapses, using his speed and agility to get to the rim and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Although the Mavericks didn't generate a high number of fast-break points in Game 1, Irving's early-offense aggression set the tone for their offensive performance. His remarkable 30-point outing, with 24 of those points coming in the first half, kept the Mavericks in the game and allowed them to stay competitive.

On the other side of the court, the Timberwolves struggled to get their star player, Anthony Edwards, involved in the paint. Edwards mainly settled for outside shots, attempting only four shots inside the arc and missing both attempts in the restricted area. This contributed to Minnesota's lower-than-average paint points, as they managed just 38 in Game 1 compared to their season average of nearly 47.

Minnesota's head coach, Chris Finch, acknowledged the need to improve Edwards' opportunities to attack the basket. The coaching staff will review the game tape to devise strategies to create driving lanes for Edwards. Additionally, the Mavericks' defense proved challenging for Edwards, with their suffocating "man and a half defense" preventing him from finding easy paths to the rim.

Another standout performer for the Mavericks was rookie center Dereck Lively II. Despite his young age, Lively showcased his versatility on both ends of the court. His ability to finish at the rim and make plays with the ball in his hands added a different dimension to Dallas' offense. Defensively, Lively proved to be a formidable presence, battling against Minnesota's big men and disrupting their inside game.

As Game 2 approaches, the Timberwolves will need to find ways to contain Lively's impact while also unlocking Edwards' ability to attack the basket. The Mavericks, led by the explosive duo of Dončić and Irving, will look to maintain their offensive aggression and continue to exploit any defensive gaps in the Timberwolves' game plan.

The stage is set for an exhilarating Game 2 at Target Center as both teams aim to gain the upper hand in this highly anticipated Western Conference finals matchup.