The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in what promises to be an exciting first-round matchup. The Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards, have won six of their last seven games, including three consecutive victories to finish the regular season.
Meanwhile, the Lakers, featuring the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and LeBron James, aim to bring another championship to Los Angeles, fueled by the impressive performance of both players.
Doncic is averaging 35 points per game, shooting 58% from the field and 57% from beyond the arc on 26 attempts over his last five games. Will the Lakers easily secure a first-round victory, or will the Timberwolves pull off a stunning upset?
All eyes are on LeBron James
James is currently in his 18th postseason and is aiming to capture his fifth NBA championship. The 40-year-old legend has achieved remarkable statistical milestones, yet winning championships may be the primary reason he continues to play the game.
He left last Friday night’s game against Houston due to a minor groin injury, but Lakers head coach J.J. Reddick stated that he will be ready in time for the playoffs. With James leading the way, the Lakers have experienced their best season since 2019-2020 and have avoided the play-in tournament for the first time since it was introduced.
A rejuvenated James could spell trouble for the Timberwolves, although historically, players often feel a bit rusty in their first game back from injury.
Reaves is the ultimate X-Factor while Doncic meets an old foe
In last season’s Western Conference Finals, Luka dominated the Timberwolves, averaging 33 points per game while shooting 47% from the field and 43% from three-point range.
The Lakers possess plenty of offensive firepower to make this series brief, especially considering Luka’s previous success against Minnesota and LeBron James’ playoff experience, which could ultimately influence the outcome.
Reaves’ emergence makes him a crucial third option for the Lakers in winning this series. Despite the defensive lapses the Lakers have experienced, there are openings for success.
When Reaves, Luka, and LeBron are all performing well, they become very difficult to maintain. Reaves’ growing ability to create his own shot, combined with opposing defenses focusing more on LeBron and Luka, allows him to leverage his skills to generate more scoring opportunities for the Lakers.
Upset on the Horizon?
The Lakers have looked impressive, but they’re facing one of the league’s brightest young stars: Anthony Edwards. He has truly arrived as a superstar in the NBA. The Timberwolves currently rank in the top 10 for both offense and defense. Edwards is averaging 27 points per game, shooting 39% from three-point range, and he leads the league with 320 three-pointers made this season.
The dynamic offense of the Wolves is supported by a strong defensive frontcourt, led by Rudy Gobert, alongside teammates like Jaden McDaniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Their gritty and physical style is well-suited for the playoff atmosphere, especially with a star like Edwards, who is looking for revenge against Luka Doncic for last season’s matchups. In both games against Minnesota this season, the Lakers struggled to score, posting fewer than 90 points in each outing and committing a total of 41 turnovers.
The Lakers lack a tough, rugged defender, and their best option, Dorian Finney-Smith, may struggle to match Edwards’ explosiveness. Los Angeles might choose to double-team Edwards, meaning players like Donte DiVincenzo and Alexander-Walker, hitting their shots will be crucial for winning.
Prediction
Timberwolves forward Julius Randle has faced criticism for his postseason play style. However, on a new team and without the pressure of being the primary star, Randle may have the opportunity to exploit matchups and provide much-needed versatility to the Wolves. His ability to score and facilitate will be crucial, especially considering his 38% shooting from three-point range after the All-Star break.
The Timberwolves face a tough challenge against the star power of the Lakers, who are currently favored to win this series with odds of -196 on FanDuel. Nevertheless, Edwards has emerged as a significant presence, and it’s unlikely that this series will be easy for the Lakers.
Prediction: Lakers in 7.