The Dallas Mavericks faced the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 20, 2026, at Target Center in a Western Conference matchup that carried very different goals for the two teams. Minnesota entered the game fighting to strengthen its playoff position, while Dallas came in with a depleted roster and struggling form after the All-Star break.
The Timberwolves were strong favorites at home due to their balanced squad, better record, and momentum. Dallas, on the other hand, has been dealing with multiple injuries and a long losing stretch, which has significantly affected both their offense and defense. With Minnesota aiming to build a winning streak and Dallas looking toward development and future planning, the matchup was expected to be one-sided.
Here is the complete preview with updated standings, recent form, injury news, head-to-head results, key player stats, betting trends, and best picks.
Match Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Dallas Mavericks vs Minnesota Timberwolves |
| Date | February 20, 2026 |
| Time | 7:30 PM ET (6:30 AM IST, Feb 21) |
| Venue | Target Center, Minneapolis |
| TV & Streaming | ESPN, FanDuel Sports Network, NBA League Pass |
Latest Standings
| Team | Record | Conference Position | Recent Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Timberwolves | 35–22 | 6th West | W1 |
| Dallas Mavericks | 19–36 | 12th West | L8 |
Minnesota strengthened its playoff push with the win, while Dallas slipped deeper into the lottery race after another loss.
Recent Form & Team Momentum
The Timberwolves have been consistent recently, going 7–3 in their last 10 games and showing strong offensive balance. They are especially solid when scoring above 117 points.
Dallas has struggled badly, going 1–9 in its last 10 games and failing to cover the spread in five straight contests. Their road form has also been poor, with only five wins away from home this season.
Head-to-Head (H2H)
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| 2025-26 Season | Timberwolves lead 2–0 |
| Last Meeting (Nov 17, 2025) | Timberwolves 120–96 Mavericks |
| Last 5 Meetings | Minnesota leads 3–2 |
Minnesota has controlled this matchup recently, especially at home.
Injury Report
Minnesota Timberwolves
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| Anthony Edwards | Available |
| Terrence Shannon Jr. | Out |
| Core players (Randle, Gobert, Reid) | Available |
Minnesota entered the game close to full strength.
Dallas Mavericks
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| Kyrie Irving | Out for season (Knee) |
| Dereck Lively II | Out for season |
| Cooper Flagg | Out (Foot) |
| Daniel Gafford | Questionable |
| Caleb Martin | Questionable |
| Max Christie | Questionable |
Dallas’ long injury list has been the biggest factor behind their recent struggles.
Team Performance Comparison (2025-26)
| Stat | Timberwolves | Mavericks |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 119.7 | 113.9 |
| Points Allowed | 114.8 | 117.4 |
| Field Goal % | 48.4% | 47.1% |
| Rebounds | 44.8 | 44.7 |
| Last 10 Games Avg Total | 230.7 | 229.5 |
The combined scoring average (233.6) is below the listed total of 239.5, which supports a lower-scoring expectation.
Key Players to Watch
Minnesota Timberwolves
- Anthony Edwards – 29.3 PPG, team’s main scorer
- Julius Randle – 22.3 PPG, 7.0 RPG, strong inside presence
- Rudy Gobert – 11.0 PPG, 11.1 RPG, defensive anchor
- Naz Reid / Donte DiVincenzo – Valuable depth scoring
Dallas Mavericks
- Naji Marshall – 15.1 PPG, increased scoring role recently
- P.J. Washington – Around 14 PPG and solid rebounding
- Max Christie / Brandon Williams – Supporting offense
- Daniel Gafford – Interior presence (if available)
With key stars missing, Dallas is relying heavily on role players.
Betting Odds
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Spread | Timberwolves -14.0 to -14.5 |
| Moneyline | Timberwolves -700 |
| Over/Under | 239.5 |
Betting Trends to Know
- Mavericks are 0–5 ATS in their last five games.
- Dallas is winless ATS when underdogs of 14+ points.
- Timberwolves are 7–3 ATS in their last 10 games.
- Minnesota has won both meetings this season.
- Both teams’ recent combined scoring is below the total line.
Also see: Heat vs Hawks Prediction: Feb 20, 2026
Best Picks for Mavericks vs Timberwolves
Main Pick: Timberwolves -8.5 (or Full Game -13.5)
Minnesota’s depth and Dallas’ injury situation make this a favorable matchup.
First Half Pick: Timberwolves 1H -8.5
Minnesota is expected to start strong against a short-handed Dallas lineup.
Player Props
- Rudy Gobert Over 10.5 Points – Advantage inside if Dallas lacks size.
- Anthony Edwards Under 28.5 Points – Potential reduced minutes in a blowout.
- Naji Marshall Over 18.5 Points – Increased usage for Dallas.
Total Pick: Under 239.5
Match Prediction
Minnesota had the clear edge with a healthier roster, better form, and strong home performance. Dallas’ limited scoring options and defensive struggles made it difficult to stay competitive.
Predicted Score: Timberwolves 122 – Mavericks 111
This matchup highlighted the gap between a playoff-contending team and a rebuilding squad. The Timberwolves continue to strengthen their Western Conference position with balanced scoring and strong defense, while the Mavericks’ season remains heavily impacted by injuries. If Minnesota maintains this level of performance, a top-six finish in the West looks increasingly realistic.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. All predictions, odds, and betting picks are based on analysis and opinion, not guaranteed outcomes. Sports betting involves risk, and readers should gamble responsibly and within their legal jurisdiction. We do not encourage or promote irresponsible gambling.
