The Dallas Mavericks took home another win to put themselves up three games to none, but it looks like their opponents aren't ready to call it a season yet. Naz Reid, one of the Minnesota Timberwolves' key players, made a bold statement about coming back from a 3-0 deficit.
“If anyone can win four straight in this scenario, I think it’s us,” Reid said, per ESPN's Dave McMenamin.
To be honest, the confidence is expected. After all, Reid wouldn't be the Sixth Man of the Year if he didn't have any self-belief. Nevertheless, his wild claim might be a little too overboard. Throughout history, no NBA team has ever managed to win a series from a 3-0 deficit. And so far, only four teams have ever returned from such a deficit to force a Game 7. The latest example of this was during last year's Eastern Conference Finals, when the Boston Celtics managed to tie their series after being on the brink of a sweep by the Miami Heat. However, like the other three teams, the Celtics eventually fell in the do-or-die clash.
And looking at how Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are playing, it'll be really difficult for the Timberwolves to pull off a miracle. Doncic has been unstoppable this series. Fresh off a game-winner days ago, the Mavericks star scored 33 points on 10-of-20 (50%) shooting in Game 3. He also sank a clutch fadeaway jumper with over two minutes remaining to start a homestretch run that would seal the game for Dallas.
As for Uncle Drew, he also added 33 points while shooting an efficient 60% from the floor. Irving also made crucial baskets in the closing moments of the game, such as his step-back baseline jumper over Karl-Anthony Towns with a minute left.
No matter how much confidence Reid and the Timberwolves have, it'll be for naught unless they find an answer to the Mavericks' dynamic duo.
Naz Reid's comment sparks reactions
Going back to Naz Reid's statement, it expectedly drew a variety of reactions online, and the posts were as one would expect.
The Mavericks edge closer to the finals
All the momentum is on the Mavericks' side at present. Being a win away from the NBA Finals, Dallas is nearing its first appearance in more than a decade. The last time the team competed on the grand stage was 2011, when names such as Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd, (who now coaches the team), donned the blue jerseys.
Nonetheless, a playoff series is first to four. Before the Mavericks can look ahead to the finals, they'll need to secure one more victory, and it won't be easy. Minnesota is expected to scrape and claw in any way they can, looking at how their backs are against the wall.
Still, if Luka and Kyrie continue their stellar play, a sweep could just happen. Game 4 tips off on Tuesday, and it'll be held at the American Airlines Center once again.
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