DALLAS – The Timberwolves have their hearts set on being a playoff team, a goal that took a small step back in Monday's 110-108 loss to the Mavericks.
The Wolves fell back into the No. 7 spot in the standings, which leaves them vulnerable to being in the play-in tournament and not advancing to the actual playoffs should they lose from there.
The Wolves are learning a lot about what it takes to be a playoff team this season — the kind of defense they need, the kind of late-game execution they will need.
They are also learning another important lesson, one that comes in fits and starts — how to deal with officiating they don't like.