RealGM Basketball Wiretap

21 February 2026

• Rudy Gobert Facing Second Suspension For Flagrant Foul Points

  The Minnesota Timberwolves are looking at being without starting center Rudy Gobert when they host the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday. Gobert is facing a suspension for accumulation of flagrant foul points. The Wolves center picked up a Flagrant 1 foul against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday.

  The foul was originally called a common foul, but was upgraded upon review. If this call stands after league review, it will be Gobert's second suspension for flagrant foul points this season. Have tripped that marker, any subsequent flagrant fouls will see Gobert hit with a two-way game suspension. Flagrant foul points reset with postseason starts.

• Where to Watch Minnesota Timberwolves? Live Basketball Streams and TV Channels for Upcoming Games

  Picture this: it's game time, the Timberwolves are tipping off at Target Center, and you're frantically scrolling through your phone trying to figure out where to watch. Sound familiar? You're not alone. Whether you're a die-hard fan, casual basketball enthusiast, or cord-cutter navigating the streaming maze, finding the right way to catch Minnesota's basketball team during this heated 2025-26 season feels impossible sometimes.

  Here's the thing: with FanDuel Sports Network North broadcasting 65 games locally, plus multiple streaming platforms like DIRECTV STREAM, YouTube TV, Fubo, and NBA League Pass in the mix, your options are everywhere. But blackout restrictions? They'll sneak up on you fast.

  You need a game plan. This guide breaks down exactly where and how to watch every Timberwolves matchup, whether you're subscribing to cable, satellite, or live tv streaming services. We'll cut through the confusion about broadcast partners, decode the schedule, and show you how to avoid those frustrating blackout restrictions that leave fans staring at blank screens. By the end, you'll know precisely which platform works best for your setup. No more scrambling. No more missed moments. Just smooth Timberwolves basketball, exactly when and how you want it.

  Date	Opponent	Time (CST)	Location
  Fri, Feb 20	vs. Dallas Mavericks	6:30 PM	Target Center
  Sun, Feb 22	vs. Philadelphia 76ers	6:00 PM	Target Center
  Tue, Feb 24	@ Portland Trail Blazers	9:00 PM	Moda Center
  Thu, Feb 26	@ LA Clippers	9:00 PM	Intuit Dome
  Sun, Mar 1	@ Denver Nuggets	12:30 PM	Ball Arena
  Tue, Mar 3	vs. Memphis Grizzlies	7:00 PM	Target Center
  Thu, Mar 5	vs. Toronto Raptors	7:00 PM	Target Center
  Sat, Mar 7	vs. Orlando Magic	2:00 PM	Target Center

  Your TV Channels for Timberwolves Coverage

  FanDuel Sports Network North (FDSN), formerly known as Bally Sports North, is your primary destination for Timberwolves basketball this season. The network broadcasts 65 games throughout the 2025-26 season, delivering comprehensive coverage across Minnesota, western Wisconsin, northern Iowa, and the Dakotas. You'll enjoy pregame shows, live broadcasts, and postgame analysis featuring knowledgeable local commentators who provide expert insight into every matchup. This regional network keeps you connected to your team with in-depth coverage tailored specifically for fans in the Upper Midwest.

  Beyond your regional network, you can catch Timberwolves games on these national broadcasts:

  • FanDuel Sports Network North (FDSN) for local broadcasts with regional commentary
  • ESPN for national game coverage
  • ABC for select primetime matchups
  • NBCfor national broadcasts
  • NBA TV for league-wide coverage
  • Amazon Prime Video for exclusive streaming games
  • Peacock for exclusive streaming broadcasts

  To access these channels, you'll need a pay-TV subscription through cable or satellite providers. DIRECTV carries FDSN on channel 668 for in-market viewers, while other providers like Mediacom, Spectrum, and Xfinity also offer the network depending on your location and package. Regional broadcasts feature local broadcast teams providing hometown perspectives, while national games showcase different commentary teams. Your access depends on your pay-TV package and whether you're located within the broadcast territory.

  Keep in mind that blackout restrictions may affect your ability to stream certain games through subscription services outside your designated market area. You'll encounter these blackouts because they protect local broadcast partners and honor the team's broadcast agreements. These restrictions ensure regional networks maintain the exclusive rights they've secured for local Timberwolves coverage.

  Streaming Services and Platforms for Live Games

  You no longer need cable or satellite to catch Timberwolves action. Multiple live TV streaming services now deliver games directly to your home without traditional contracts. All you need is a reliable internet connection and a compatible device. Whether you're streaming on your smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or streaming device, you'll find options that fit your budget and viewing habits. Most services offer free trials, letting you test the platform before committing.

  Streaming Service Comparison

  Service Name	Monthly Price	FDSN Available	National Channels	Key Features	Best For
  DIRECTV STREAM (Choice)	$49.99 first month	Yes	ESPN, ABC, NBC, NBA TV	Unlimited DVR, 3 simultaneous streams	Budget-conscious fans
  Fubo	$73.99-$85	Yes	ESPN, ABC, NBC	Sports-focused, comprehensive coverage	Dedicated sports viewers
  YouTube TV	$59.99 first 2 months, then $82.99	Limited markets	Strong local channels	Unlimited DVR (9 months), wide coverage	Local game access
  Hulu + Live TV	~$77	No	ESPN, ABC, NBC	Bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+	Entertainment plus sports
  FanDuel Sports Network App	$19.99	Yes	Team-specific content only	Direct FDSN streaming	Exclusive FSN content

  Each streaming platform offers different game access and viewing options. You'll appreciate the flexibility of watching on smartphones during commutes, tablets at home, or smart TVs for the ultimate experience. FDSN availability varies by ZIP code, so check your location before subscribing. Monthly commitments apply, though free trials help you decide.

  You can also add FanDuel Sports Network to Amazon Prime Video for $19.99 monthly if you're already a Prime member in your local market. Streaming service prices fluctuate based on channels and features included. Compare options carefully to find your perfect fit for following Minnesota basketball throughout the season.

  NBA League Pass for Timberwolves Fans

  NBA League Pass stands as the NBA's official streaming service designed specifically for out-of-market fans living outside broadcast territories. Whether you're traveling, relocating, or simply craving comprehensive basketball coverage, this platform delivers live games, instant replays, highlight reels, and complete season coverage through a dedicated mobile app. It's your gateway to watching Timberwolves action whenever you want, wherever you are (within streaming restrictions).

  League Pass Subscription Options Breakdown

  • NBA League Pass Standard ($16.99/month or $109.99/season, mid-season deals at $49.99): Access all out-of-market games, NBA TV included, one simultaneous stream, replays and highlights available immediately after games conclude.
  • NBA League Pass Premium ($24.99/month or $159.99/season, deals at $74.99): Same comprehensive out-of-market coverage as Standard, plus three simultaneous streams for household sharing, ad-free viewing experience, and offline download capabilities on multiple devices.
  • NBA Team Pass ($13.99/month, $89.99/season): Perfect for dedicated Timberwolves fans wanting single-team coverage of out-of-market games only, one stream access, excludes NBA TV programming.

  Understanding Blackout Restrictions

  Here's what you absolutely need to know: blackout restrictions significantly limit League Pass access. If you're located within Minnesota and surrounding broadcast territory, you cannot watch Timberwolves games broadcast on FDSN locally. Additionally, nationally televised games airing on ESPN, ABC, NBC, or Prime Video are blacked out nationwide for all subscribers.

  You're not completely locked out though. Blacked-out game broadcasts become available as replays approximately three hours after the final buzzer sounds. Before committing financially, you should verify blackout restrictions using your zip code on the NBA League Pass website. Take advantage of the free seven-day trial first to confirm availability in your specific location.

  Streaming Apps and Additional Access Options

  Official Team Resources and App Access

  You'll want to download the official Minnesota Timberwolves app and visit their website for fantastic supplementary content throughout the season. The app delivers game highlights immediately after matchups conclude, detailed pregame coverage that builds excitement, and in-depth postgame analysis breaking down key moments. You'll gain behind-the-scenes access showing team preparation and player interactions. While full live game streaming typically requires authentication through your existing streaming subscription or cable/satellite login, the app still offers tremendous value with premium content available year-round.

  Network Apps and Exclusive Streaming Services

  You can stream games through network-specific apps like ESPN and NBC by authenticating with valid subscription credentials. However, Amazon Prime Video and Peacockoffer exclusive games not available elsewhere, requiring a separate streaming subscription to access their premium content. You'll appreciate the flexibility these services provide across smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, allowing you to watch games anywhere. Choose streaming combinations fitting your viewing preferences and budget. Whether you're catching highlights on your phone during work or settling in for exclusive Peacock coverage on your smart TV, you've got multiple pathways to follow your Wolves throughout the season.

  Additional Features to Enhance Your Viewing Experience

  Comprehensive Coverage Beyond Live Games

  You'll discover that pregame and postgame shows significantly deepen your connection to Timberwolves basketball. FDSN delivers comprehensive pregame analysis with your favorite broadcast team breaking down matchups, strategies, and player storylines through engaging interviews and previews. The postgame shows don't disappoint either, offering detailed game breakdowns, highlight reels, and candid player reactions that reveal what unfolded on the court. These supplementary programs keep you engaged throughout the season, providing context and insight that transform casual viewing into true fan immersion.

  Catching Replays and Highlights Anytime

  You have multiple options for reliving the action whenever it suits you. NBA League Pass delivers full game replays alongside condensed versions perfect for busy schedules, while the NBA's official YouTube channel posts highlight compilations within hours of tipoff. The Timberwolves' social media channels continuously share key moments and exciting plays. Both YouTube TV and DIRECTV STREAM offer unlimited DVR storage, meaning you'll never miss recording home games or away games for later viewing.

  Choosing Your Best Viewing Option

  You've got several solid paths to catch Timberwolves action this season. Minnesota residents and those in broadcast territory benefit most from providers carrying FanDuel Sports Network North, which airs 65 games. For national broadcasts across ESPN/ABC, NBC, Prime Video, and NBA TV, you can tap traditional cable or streaming services. Out-of-market fans unlock additional games through League Pass options, giving you flexibility based on your location and preferences.

  Your best choice depends on your specific situation. If you're cutting the cord, DIRECTV STREAM or YouTube TV deliver the strongest combination of FDSN access, national sports networks, tv channels, and robust DVR capabilities, though they command premium pricing. Budget-conscious viewers should consider the FanDuel Sports Network app at just $19.99 monthly, offering the most affordable gateway to majority of the season's games.

  Out-of-market fans find tremendous value in NBA Team Pass at $13.99 monthly, providing access to non-blacked-out Timberwolves matchups. For comprehensive coverage seekers determined never to miss action, pairing League Pass Premium with a service carrying national channels ensures you're covered despite blackout restrictions.

  You should explore different streaming options and leverage free trials available through most services. Testing various platforms helps you identify what works best for your devices, viewing habits, and budget throughout the basketball season.

• How to watch Dallas Mavericks @ Minnesota Timberwolves NBA game: Tip-off time, cable channels, RSNs

  The encounter scheduled for February 20, 2026, between the Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center in Minneapolis serves as a primary case study for the current state of the league. This matchup highlights the divergence between a Minnesota organization operating at the peak of its championship window and a Dallas franchise undergoing a radical, rookie-centric pivot. As the league's new multi-billion-dollar media rights agreement enters its critical mid-season phase, the broadcast availability of this game reflects a sophisticated, multi-platform distribution strategy designed to capture global audiences across terrestrial, cable, and direct-to-consumer digital channels.

  The Dallas Mavericks enter the contest with a record of 19-35, positioned 12th in the Western Conference. While the current record suggests a struggling season, a deeper analysis reveals an organization in the midst of a sophisticated "retooling" phase designed to maximize the prime of its newest cornerstone, Cooper Flagg. The Mavericks' season has been defined by the absence of veteran star Kyrie Irving, who has been officially ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season as he continues his recovery from ACL reconstruction surgery performed in March 2025. This absence prompted the front office, led by Nico Harrison, to pivot toward a developmental strategy that prioritizes high-lottery positioning and long-term financial flexibility.

  The Minnesota Timberwolves represent the antithesis of the Mavericks' current developmental state, operating as a legitimate contender for the 2026 NBA title. With a record of 34-22, the Timberwolves occupy the 6th seed in a hyper-competitive Western Conference, boasting the league's fourth-ranked offense and a top-twelve defense. The franchise's identity is anchored by Anthony Edwards, who has transitioned from a rising star to a global face of the league. Edwards' ascension was solidified during the 2026 All-Star Weekend, where he was named the All-Star Game MVP after leading "Team Stars" to a dominant victory. Edwards is currently averaging 29.3 points per game, ranking near the top of the league's scoring leaders, while maintaining elite defensive metrics.

  How to watch Dallas Mavericks @ Minnesota Timberwolves online - national and local U.S. TV channels & live streams

  In the United States, ESPN serves as the primary national broadcaster for this Friday night clash. This broadcast is part of a expanded national schedule that includes ABC, ESPN, NBC, and Prime Video, as the league has sought to increase the frequency of nationally televised games to approximately 247 broadcasts per season. For the February 20 game, ESPN provides not only the live feed but also pre-game and post-game analytical segments that will likely focus on the return of high-profile rookies and the fallout of the recent trade deadline.

  While national viewers tune in via ESPN, fans within the local markets of the competing teams have access through their respective regional carriers. In Minnesota, FanDuel Sports Network North (formerly Bally Sports North) remains the home for the Timberwolves, providing hyper-local coverage and expert commentary tailored to the Minneapolis audience. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the Mavericks have transitioned their local broadcasting to a hybrid model involving TEGNA-owned stations, specifically WFAA Channel 8 and KFAA.

  How to watch Dallas Mavericks @ Minnesota Timberwolves internationally

  If you are outside of the USA, the NBA game between Dallas Mavericks @ Minnesota Timberwolves should be available to livestream with an NBA League Pass.

  Please be aware that livestream rights vary by country and depend on local broadcast deals. NBA games that aren't shown live on NBA League Pass are usually later made available on-demand.

  Stream internationally on League Pass

  Stream now

  How to watch anywhere with VPN

  If you are abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as ExpressVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

  Probable Starting Lineups

  For the Dallas Mavericks, the starting unit is expected to be anchored by rookie sensation Cooper Flagg at the small forward position, as he is targeted to return from a midfoot sprain. Joining Flagg in the backcourt will be veteran playmaker Tyus Jones, who takes over the primary point guard duties following his trade from the Hornets, and Max Christie at the shooting guard spot. The frontcourt will be rounded out by P.J. Washington at power forward and Daniel Gafford at center, providing a blend of rim protection and floor spacing. This lineup emphasizes a high-pace, positionless style where Flagg and Jones share playmaking responsibilities, while veterans like Khris Middleton and Klay Thompson provide scoring punch off the bench.

  The Minnesota Timberwolves are projected to field a starting five that remains one of the most balanced in the Western Conference. Mike Conley is expected to start at point guard, providing a veteran steadying hand for the offense, alongside All-Star Game MVP Anthony Edwards at shooting guard. The wing will be occupied by Jaden McDaniels, whose primary assignment will be to neutralize Cooper Flagg's offensive output. In the frontcourt, Julius Randle will start at power forward, with Rudy Gobert anchoring the defense at the center position. This lineup allows Minnesota to play a physical brand of basketball, utilizing Gobert's rim protection to funnel ball-handlers toward the perimeter where McDaniels and Edwards can use their athleticism to disrupt passing lanes. Off the bench, Naz Reid and Ayo Dosunmu will provide high-energy minutes, ensuring that the Timberwolves can maintain their offensive efficiency throughout all four quarters.

  Head-to-Head Series History

  The Timberwolves currently hold a 2-0 lead in the seasonal series, having secured two convincing double-digit victories. Their first meeting on November 17, 2025, resulted in a 120-96 win for the Timberwolves at the Target Center, where Minnesota's defense held Dallas to sub-40% shooting. This was followed by a 118-105 road victory for the Timberwolves on January 28, 2026, a game in which Minnesota covered an 8.5-point spread as the away favorite.

• Johnny Juzang Waived By Wolves From Two-Way Deal

  The Minnesota Timberwolves have waived Johnny Juzang from his Two-Way deal.

  Juzang, 6-7, appeared in 21 games for the Timberwolves this season while averaging 2.0 points and 0.8 rebounds in 4.2 minutes per game. The Los Angeles native has appeared in 123 career games (23 starts) in four seasons with the Timberwolves and Utah Jazz averaging 6.9 points and 2.2 rebounds in 16.0 minutes per game.

  Juzang is represented by Jason Glushon.

• Anthony Edwards Named MVP As USA Stars Win 2026 NBA All-Star Championship

  Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards was named MVP as his USA Stars team won the 2026 NBA All-Star Championship. The USA Stars defeated the USA Stripes in the final of the mini-tournament by a score of 47-21.

  The first three games of the NBA's new All-Star format were highly competitive. The USA Stars defeated Team World 37-35 in overtime in Game 1. Anthony Edwards led the way for USA Stars with 13 points, while Victor Wembanyama scored 14 to lead Team World.

  Game 2 saw De'Aaron Fox hit a buzzer beat to lift USA Stripes over USA Stars by a score of 42-40. Jaylen Brown led USA Stripes with 11 points, while Edwards and Cade Cunningham score 11 points apiece for USA Stars.

  Game 3 game down to the buzzer, as Wembanyama missed a game-tying three-pointer at the buzzer, with USA Stripes winning 48-45 over Team World. Kawhi Leonard scored the most points of the tournament with 31 points for Team Stripes, while Wembanyama scored 19 to lead Team World.

• Mike Conley Jr. To Re-Sign With Wolves

  Mike Conley Jr. intends to re-sign with the Minnesota Timberwolves in the coming days. The Wolves traded Conley to the Chicago Bulls in a luxury tax maneuver ahead of the trade deadline. Because Conley was traded again to the Charlotte Hornets, he is eligible to re-sign with the Wolves.

  Conley has appeared in 44 games with the Wolves this season, averaging 4.4 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 18.5 minutes. Since his first full season with the Wolves in 2023-24, Conley's PER has decreased from 15.7 to 13.1 to 8.9 this season.

  Conley is now 38 years old and was a member of the 2007 NBA draft class

• Wolves, Heat In Play For Giannis Antetokounmpo; Bucks Looking At Ja Morant Trade

  The Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat are believed to still be in the running to trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo ahead of the NBA deadline at 3:00 PM ET on Thursday. However, like where the Golden State Warriors landed when they moved on to trade for Kristaps Porzingis, there is widespread belief that the Bucks will not trade Antetokounmpo before the deadline.

  In part because of reluctance to trade Antetokounmpo, the Bucks are looking at ways to upgrade their roster around their star. One option the Bucks are considering is trading for point guard Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies. Memphis is leaning into a rebuild after trading Jaren Jackson Jr. earlier this week to the Utah Jazz, and could take back a package of shorter contracts and role players for Morant.

• Grizzlies Ready To Accelerate Ja Morant Trade Talks, Open To Being Facilitator In Giannis Trade

  After trading Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, the Memphis Grizzlies are expected to accelerate their efforts to also deal away Ja Morant and are prepared to come off their previous asking price, sources tell Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports. The Grizzlies are resigned to the reality that Morant, a former franchise player and true superstar, won't bring back anywhere close to the type of return they received for Jackson and Desmond Bane.

  With Morant available at a lower cost, the Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat could have the opportunity to retain most of their assets to offer to the Milwaukee Bucks for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Sources tell the Heat could be amenable to signing Morant to an extension at an amount he's seeking if they trade for him.

  Memphis is also interested in entering any Antetokounmpo trade as a facilitator. The Grizzlies were exploring the possibility of acquiring Mike Conley Jr. in a multi-team trade involving the Bucks. But the Wolves moved forward with a separate deal on Tuesday involving the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons.

  Morant has found himself with a diminished market following injuries, off-court issues and a general decline in his production. Morant is averaging 19.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 8.1 assists this season.

• Bulls Acquire Jaden Ivey, Mike Conley Jr., Pistons Receive Kevin Huerter

  The Chicago Bulls have acquired Jaden Ivey and Mike Conley Jr. in a three-team trade with the Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves. The Pistons will acquire Kevin Huerter and Dario Saric along with a 2026 first round protected swap from the Wolves.

  Ivey becomes a pre-agency candidate for the Bulls after he was unable to agree to a contract extension with the Pistons in October.

  The Bulls have Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu as unrestricted free agents this offseason as he is also a trade candidate at the deadline with potential fit concerns alongside Josh Giddey.

  The Wolves receive significant luxury tax savings with the maneuver as it will drop from $24 million to $3.8 million. Minnesota will also drop below the first apron with the transaction.

  Detroit had a need for an additional three-point shooter as they look to further their success of their regular season into the playoffs.

• Wolves Emerge As Most Aggressive Western Conference Contender At Trade Deadline

  Of the six teams at the top of the Western Conference standings, the Minnesota Timberwolves are believed to be the one who are most aggressively looking to make a major move ahead of the trade deadline. The Wolves have been linked to various upgrades in the backcourt all season as Rob Dillingham hasn't emerged the way they envisioned when they traded for him on draft night in 2024, plus they are in serious pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo.

  The Wolves were similarly highly motivated to acquire Kevin Durant both at last year's trade deadline and again in June before he was dealt by the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets.

  "The most aggressive team in the West right now is the Minnesota Timberwolves," said Brian Windhorst on Monday's episode of Get Up. "They are in the game for Giannis. I don't believe that their offers can outweigh the other offers and I'm not even sure that Giannis is getting traded before Thursday.

  "The Timberwolves are being aggressive. If they don't make what I would call a Hail Mary Giannis deal, I think they are aggressively looking to upgrade their backcourt.

  "And they have beaten the Thunder twice this year. So, they certainly, you know, are a team that would have some confidence against them. But when the Thunder at the top of their game, I'm not sure you're touching them."

  Windhorst added that he doesn't anticipate the Thunder, Denver Nuggets or Los Angeles Lakers making a major transaction at the deadline. The San Antonio Spurs and Rockets, meanwhile, have not been linked with Antetokounmpo and are also expected to let the deadline pass without major activity.