Los Angeles, Calif. - The Los Angeles Lakers fell in surprising fashion Saturday, contributing to yesterday's nba scores yesterday with a 117-95 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the opening game of their first-round playoff series.
Minnesota asserted its physical presence from the start, overwhelming the Lakers with strong performances from key players who embraced the moment.
Forward Jaden McDaniels led the charge for the Timberwolves. He posted 25 points on 11-of-13 shooting, adding nine rebounds in a standout two-way effort that seemed to catch the Lakers off guard.
Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid also provided a significant boost, scoring 23 points. Reid was particularly effective from behind the arc, hitting 6 of 9 three-pointers, contributing to Minnesota setting a playoff franchise record with 21 made three-pointers.
Following the defeat, Lakers coach JJ Redick described a practice session Monday as the "best practice we've had in months," suggesting a lack of focus leading into the playoffs. He noted the team reviewed defensive lapses and focused on offensive execution in subsequent practices.
Guard Austin Reaves acknowledged the team played poorly. Reaves finished with 16 points but posted a team-worst minus-25 plus-minus rating. LeBron James also struggled, scoring 19 points on inefficient shooting with five turnovers. The Lakers' bench was significantly outscored 43-13.
Minnesota capitalized on tactical matchups, particularly when the Lakers opted for smaller lineups. McDaniels and Reid repeatedly attacked the paint against perceived weaker interior defense. The disparity in three-point shooting and transition points favored the Timberwolves heavily.
Both teams anticipate adjustments for Game 2. While the Timberwolves performed strongly, players like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle also expressed areas for improvement, indicating the potential for even better play from Minnesota.
The series schedule includes multiple two-day breaks between games, a factor some observers believe could favor the Lakers' veteran roster. However, the Timberwolves coaching staff has noted they benefit from extended preparation time afforded by these breaks.
