Just months after snagging Luka Doncic, the Lakers are on the edge of a first-round exit. The sixth-seeded Timberwolves are leading 3-1 over LeBron James and his crew as they head into Wednesday night’s game. Anthony Edwards is looking to add to his list of playoff victories, rolling in after dropping 43 points in Game 4. The Lakers have been putting in some serious effort, with Doncic scoring over 30 points in three out of four games, and James hitting at least 20 points in three games. But their hard work hasn’t paid off much, except for a Game 2 win where they held Minnesota to 85 points. In the following games, the Timberwolves’ bench strength has proven too much for the Lakers, who are heavily reliant on their starters.
Edwards has been the driving force behind the Timberwolves’ success. His standout performance in Game 4 was impressive, and he’s been showing off his all-around game with 23 assists, 31 rebounds, and just six turnovers in the series so far. Alongside Edwards, Julius Randle (averaging 22.5 points per game), Jaden McDaniels (19.8 points per game), and Naz Reid (13.8 points per game) have all stepped up their game for the playoffs.
If the Lakers lose on Wednesday, they’ll be looking at a fascinating offseason with a 40-year-old James and a prime Doncic on the roster. But before that, the two superstars are aiming to keep their season alive. On the other hand, one more win for Edwards and the Timberwolves would see them through to the second round for the second year in a row.
The Timberwolves are set to face the Lakers in Game 5 of the first-round series, and The Sporting News is keeping track of the live updates and highlights. The game is shaping up to be a crucial one for both teams.
LeBron James seems pretty relaxed before Game 5, even rapping along to Eminem’s “The Way I Am” during warmups. The Lakers’ head coach, JJ Redick, wasn’t too pleased when asked about his substitution decisions for Game 5, showing some frustration before storming off.
Anthony Edwards looks calm and collected, just one win away from sending the Lakers packing. Both James and Doncic have a history of stepping up in elimination games, and all eyes are on them to keep Los Angeles in the game. Maxi Kleber, recently acquired by the Lakers, is hoping to make his debut for the team after being out with an injury.
As the game approaches, tensions are high for both teams. Will the Lakers manage to stay in the series, or will the Timberwolves secure their spot in the next round? The matchup is set to be an intense one, with both teams hungry for a win.
The game is scheduled to start at 10 p.m. ET at crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. Fans can catch the action on TNT or truTV, with the option to stream on Max or Sling for those looking for an online viewing experience.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Lakers vs. Timberwolves Game 5 as the action unfolds. It’s sure to be a nail-biter as both teams fight to keep their playoff hopes alive.
