After a deflating 120-96 loss in Game 1, the Los Angeles Lakers entered Tuesday night with urgency, needing a strong response against a Timberwolves team that had dominated the series opener. The Lakers were outplayed in nearly every facet in Game 1, including a scoreless first quarter from LeBron James and a sluggish offensive display that raised questions about their ability to keep up with Minnesota’s firepower.
But in Game 2, the Lakers flipped the script. Behind a blistering 34-15 start in the first quarter, Los Angeles seized early control and never looked back, holding off the Timberwolves in a 94-85 win at Crypto.com Arena to even the series at 1-1.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images
LeBron James delivered a poised and balanced performance, finishing with 21 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists—bouncing back from his inefficient Game 1 where he shot just 6-for-18 from the field. Luka Doncic once again led all scorers, continuing his elite postseason stretch with 31 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists, setting the tone for L.A.’s offense.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Speaking postgame with reporter Mike Trudell, James emphasized the tone the series has taken. “That’s what it’s gonna take. They play hard as hell, we gotta play hard as hell,” James said. “They play with intensity, we gotta match their intensity. It’s gonna be like this all series.”
Despite a late surge from the Timberwolves—fueled by Julius Randle’s 27 points and six assists, and a strong 25-point effort from Anthony Edwards—the Lakers stayed composed. Their defensive intensity and bench contributions made the difference in a gritty second half.
The series now shifts to Minnesota for Game 3 on Friday, where the Timberwolves will look to reclaim momentum. For the Lakers, they’ll aim to replicate the formula that brought them even and steal a big win on the road.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Related: LeBron James, Michael Jordan News Turns Heads During NBA Playoffs
Related: Fans Upset Over Austin Reaves News After Lakers’ Loss to Timberwolves
