Anthony Edwards' 40-Point Night Leads Timberwolves to Victory over Mavericks

Minnesota's star player delivers clutch performance to secure win over struggling Dallas team.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:44am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic movements of a basketball player driving to the hoop, their body and the ball dissolving into energetic brushstrokes.The Timberwolves' star player Anthony Edwards delivers a dazzling 40-point performance to lead his team to victory over the struggling Mavericks.Philadelphia Today

In a high-scoring matchup on February 20, 2026, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Dallas Mavericks 122-111, led by a dominant 40-point performance from Anthony Edwards. The Timberwolves built an early lead but had to hold off a late Mavericks comeback attempt before sealing the victory.

Why it matters

This game could be a turning point in the seasons for both teams - a confidence-boosting win for the surging Timberwolves, but a troubling loss that extends the Mavericks' losing streak to 10 games, their longest in nearly three decades.

The details

Edwards' 40 points led the way for Minnesota, who also got strong contributions from Rudy Gobert (22 points, 17 rebounds, 3 blocks) and Naz Reid (21 points). The Timberwolves built a 17-point lead in the first half but had to withstand a late Mavericks rally sparked by Tyus Jones' game-tying floater. Khris Middleton and Marvin Bagley led Dallas with 18 and 15 points respectively, but the absences of key players like Cooper Flagg, Max Christie, Kyrie Irving, and Dereck Lively proved too much to overcome.

  • The game was played on February 20, 2026.
  • Minnesota built a 17-point lead in the first half.
  • Dallas tied the game at 103 in the fourth quarter on a Tyus Jones floater.

The players

Anthony Edwards

The Minnesota Timberwolves' star player, who recently won the All-Star Game MVP award, scored 40 points to lead his team to victory.

Rudy Gobert

The Timberwolves' dominant center, who recorded a double-double with 22 points, 17 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

Tyus Jones

The Dallas Mavericks' point guard, who hit a key shot to tie the game at 103 in the fourth quarter and spark a late rally for his team.

Khris Middleton

A Mavericks player who led his team with 18 points in the losing effort.

Marvin Bagley

A Mavericks player who scored 15 points as Dallas struggled to overcome the absences of several key players.

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What they’re saying

“We knew this was going to be a tough game, but the guys really stepped up and showed their resilience. Anthony was unstoppable, and Rudy was a force in the paint. I'm proud of how we responded to their late run.”

— Chris Finch, Timberwolves Head Coach

“We just couldn't get over the hump tonight. Missing some of our key guys really hurt us, and we couldn't find a way to slow down Edwards and Gobert. We'll need to regroup and figure out how to get back on track.”

— Jason Kidd, Mavericks Head Coach

What’s next

The Timberwolves will host the Philadelphia 76ers in their next game, while the Mavericks will travel to face the Indiana Pacers. Both teams will be looking to build on the momentum (or lack thereof) from this matchup as they continue their respective seasons.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the Timberwolves' growing chemistry and resilience, led by the star power of Anthony Edwards. Meanwhile, the Mavericks' struggles continue, raising questions about the team's ability to overcome key injuries and find a path back to success. The outcome could be a pivotal moment in the trajectories of both franchises this season.