The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Dallas Mavericks 122-111 at the Target Center on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Minnesota used a strong third-quarter surge to take control and never relinquished it, earning a solid win over a Western Conference foe. The first half was competitive, with Dallas's guards keeping the Mavericks within striking distance. After halftime, the Timberwolves ramped up their defensive pressure, forcing turnovers that led to easy baskets and a double-digit lead. Minnesota's frontcourt dominated the paint on both ends, controlling the rebounds and limiting Dallas's second-chance opportunities. The Mavericks attempted a late comeback with a flurry of three-pointers, but the Timberwolves' lead was too substantial to overcome. This victory strengthened Minnesota's hold on a playoff spot and served as a reminder of their defensive prowess. For Dallas, it was a lesson in handling physical, defensive-minded teams on the road. The win was a key result in the tightly packed Western Conference standings. Timberwolves' coach emphasized the importance of their defensive identity, while Mavericks' staff pointed to turnovers as the game's turning point.