Jon Krawczynski, a reporter for The Athletic, shared a lighthearted comment from Minnesota Timberwolves center Julius Randle about veteran teammate Mike Conley. Randle quipped, “I think he’s starting to really turn the corner and find his rhythm. He’s old as hell, so it takes older people a little bit longer. Now that it’s game 50, hopefully he’s caught his rhythm, and we can get this thing going.”

Conley, who is 37 years old, has embraced his role as a veteran presence for the Timberwolves. Despite averaging a career-low 7.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game this season, his leadership and timely contributions were critical in Minnesota’s 115-114 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night.

In the tightly contested matchup, Conley recorded a season-high 18 points, including two clutch free throws with 11.8 seconds remaining. Those free throws helped secure the Timberwolves’ victory and moved their record to 23-21, tying the Mavericks for seventh place in the Western Conference.

Jaden McDaniels stole the spotlight for Minnesota with a career-best 27 points, along with eight rebounds and four blocks. He showcased his versatility, hitting a crucial three-pointer late in the fourth quarter to fend off a Dallas rally led by Kyrie Irving.

Irving poured in 36 points for the Mavericks, surpassing the 18,000-career-point milestone. P.J. Washington Jr. contributed 30 points for Dallas, but their comeback bid fell short when Irving’s running three-pointer at the buzzer missed its mark.

The Mavericks struggled without several key players, including Luka Doncic, who has been sidelined since late December with a calf strain. Center Dereck Lively II was also ruled out indefinitely after being diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right ankle.

Minnesota capitalized on balanced scoring and a strong defensive effort. Anthony Edwards contributed 21 points, while Rudy Gobert added 14 points, six rebounds, and three blocks. The Timberwolves’ efficiency was evident in their 45.7% shooting from the field and their ability to convert 30-of-34 free throw attempts.

For Dallas, bench production and three-point shooting were areas of concern. The Mavericks hit just 8-of-29 attempts from beyond the arc, a 27.6% clip, while Minnesota’s defensive rotations caused 13 turnovers.

Conley’s contributions extended beyond scoring, as he dished out eight assists and controlled the pace in crucial moments. His composure, despite Randle’s playful jab about his age, continues to make him an asset for a Timberwolves team fighting for playoff positioning.