For the 6th straight season the Timberwolves have exited the NBA Playoffs after one round. For the second straight season the Dallas Mavericks have won their first-round series. For the first time in franchise history, the Mavs have swept a team out of the playoffs.

While the final score doesn't indicate a close game (and much of it wasn't), and the fact that there were no lead changes, and the only tie was 0-0, the game was close in the final minutes. After leading by as many as 19 in the first half, and 20 in the second, the Mavs went cold to start the 4th quarter, allowing the Timberwolves to close to within 3 points. Timely shooting by the Mavs, along with three huge hustle plays on three straight possesions by Najera ultimately led to the Timberwolves demise.

Dirk Nowitzki once again turned in an MVP-like performance with 39 points, 17 boards, and 3 steals. Michael Finley continued his excellence in this postseason with 30 points, including 4-6 on 3's, and 9 rebounds. Steve Nash also came up big with 25 points and 11 assists.

The big game by the big three was just what the Mavs needed to offset subpar performances by Van Exel (3 points in 28 minutes) and LaFrentz (6 points, 1 rebound, 1 block, and 6 fouls in only 17 minutes).

Continuing the sharpshooting trend started back in Dallas in game 2, the Mavs connected on 13 of 24 three point shots.

Still unknown for round two is Dallas' opponent. It will be the winner of the Sacramento - Utah series, which the Kings now lead 2-1. What we do know is that the first game of that series will be played next Saturday at 5:30 PM Central Time.

GO MAVS!