The Minnesota Timberwolves made a powerful statement in Game 1 of their Western Conference playoff series, cruising to a 117-95 victory over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. Jaden McDaniels sparked the win with 25 points, setting the tone early for the Wolves’ all-around performance.
Luka Doncic, making his playoff debut for the Lakers following a blockbuster trade in February, led his team with 37 points. LeBron James, chasing a fifth NBA title in his 22nd season, recovered from a scoreless first quarter to finish with 19. Despite their efforts, the Lakers couldn’t match Minnesota’s pace and execution.
Though the Timberwolves trailed by seven after the opening quarter, they quickly found their rhythm in the second and never relinquished the lead. Naz Reid delivered a major boost off the bench with 23 points, hitting six of Minnesota’s franchise-best 21 three-pointers in a playoff game. Anthony Edwards nearly posted a triple-double, contributing 22 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists while helping extend the lead to as much as 27 points.
Los Angeles made a push with a 10-0 run in the third quarter to close the gap to 88-71, but Minnesota remained composed and countered each surge effectively.
“We were ready from the start,” said Edwards, who motivated his team pregame with a message to be “ready to fight.” He praised his teammates’ confidence and preparation, saying it was key to their success.
Lakers coach JJ Redick admitted his squad couldn’t match Minnesota’s physical approach. “Mentally, we were locked in,” he said. “But once they amped up their physicality, we didn’t answer fast enough.”
Unfortunately for the Lakers, they were the only home team to lose on the opening day of the first-round playoff action.