The Big Lead

Lakers vs Timberwolves: Why L.A.’s Playoff Edge Might Be Too Much for Minnesota to Handle

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By John Robinson IV

Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrates with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the fourth quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrates with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the fourth quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
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The Lakers and Timberwolves are set to clash in what’s shaping up to be one of the most compelling playoff series in the Western Conference. While many expect the star-studded Lakers, led by LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and Austin Reaves, to take control, this Minnesota squad is no pushover. Finishing the regular season 9-2 with 50 wins, the Timberwolves boast a rare balance—ranking top 10 in both offensive and defensive efficiency.

At the center of Minnesota’s hopes is Anthony Edwards, who’s emerged as one of the league’s brightest young stars. Averaging 27.4 points per game and hitting 320 threes this season, Edwards is unbothered by critics and poised to prove he can carry a team to an upset series win.

However, the Lakers have a strategic edge. Luka Dončić has historically torched the Timberwolves, and the Lakers’ small-ball lineup—featuring versatile wings and spacing—poses problems for Rudy Gobert and Minnesota’s paint-heavy defense. The playoff-tested LeBron, emerging third option Reaves, and a favorable bracket all suggest this could be a deep run for the purple and gold.

With assistant coach Greg St. Jean contributing insight from his time in Phoenix and role players like Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent expected to step up, L.A. has the tools to capitalize. If the Lakers execute their five-out schemes and force Gobert into switches, Minnesota may struggle to keep up. This may not be a “last dance” for LeBron and Luka—but it could be the start of something legendary. Prediction: Lakers in five.

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