The Minnesota Timberwolves visited the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on Wednesday, seeking to extend their recent positive run following a five-game losing streak. The Timberwolves had just secured a 108-83 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Monday, playing without star Anthony Edwards, while Golden State was missing key players Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
Anthony Davis Remains Out with Hand Injury
Although Anthony Edwards has returned to play, the Mavericks continue to face challenges without Anthony Davis. Davis is sidelined for at least another month due to a hand injury. With Davis having appeared in only 20 games this season and posting impressive averages of 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game, his absence weighs heavily on Dallas’s lineup.
Coach Chris Finch Recognizes Davis’s Impact and Ability
Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch, who previously coached Davis when both were with New Orleans, expressed high regard for the injured player’s skills.
“Amazing player. One of my favorites,”
Finch said, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. Stein further noted that Finch considered Davis to be the top pick-and-roll defender among big men until Victor Wembanyama emerged.
Potential Implications of Trade Discussions
While Finch stopped short of suggesting Minnesota may pursue Davis before the trade deadline, a reunion could hold promise for both sides. Finch served as an assistant coach for the Pelicans from 2017 to 2020, when Davis was the team’s cornerstone. The Mavericks are reportedly exploring trade options involving Davis, but concerns about his injury history and sizable contract might deter some interested teams.
Timberwolves’ Roster Moves and Future Prospects
As the Mavericks manage Davis’s situation, Minnesota faces its own roster decisions. Julius Randle may be considered for a move, despite Finch’s repeated praise of Randle’s versatile contributions. The evolving trade landscape and player conditions suggest both teams are navigating strategic adjustments ahead.
Wolves coach Chris Finch on how much Dallas is missing without the injured Anthony Davis: "Amazing player. One of my favorites."
Finch coached Davis in New Orleans and said he rated AD as the league's top pick-and-roll defender among bigs until Victor Wembanyama's arrival.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) January 29, 2026
