MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Timberwolves enlisted an impeccable performance to clinch a well-timed victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, concluding their game with a relentless offensive push that past encounters had lacked.
Jaden McDaniels showcased his playoff prowess by amassing a career-best 30 points, highlighting his integral role in Minnesota’s staunch defense against an under-the-weather Luka Doncic. This effort propelled the Timberwolves to a 116-104 triumph in the third matchup of their first-round series, granting them a 2-1 lead.
“Jaden’s endurance is remarkable. He’s capable of playing a full 48 minutes without losing steam,” remarked Anthony Edwards, who contributed 29 points, along with eight rebounds and eight assists. Julius Randle chipped in with 22 points, bolstering the Timberwolves, who dominated the closing moments with a decisive 13-1 run following Doncic’s baseline equalizer.
“This was undoubtedly our best finish of the season,” praised head coach Chris Finch.
LeBron James shouldered much of the Lakers’ load, despite Doncic dealing with a stomach ailment. James put up 38 points, including three consecutive three-pointers during an intense flurry in the fourth quarter.
“He was sinking shots from beyond imagination,” Anthony Edwards jested. “His shooting was on another level.”
However, James couldn’t maintain the momentum beyond that blistering burst, faltering with a corner attempt that missed the mark with the Lakers trailing 111-104 and under two minutes remaining. Edwards then cemented the victory with a long jumper, energizing the home crowd at Target Center even more during the ensuing timeout.
“This was, without a doubt, the most fun experience I’ve had here,” Edwards shared.
The series continues with Game 4 scheduled for Sunday in Minneapolis.
Austin Reaves contributed 20 points while sinking 5 of 11 from three-point land, which kept the Lakers competitive despite their 19 turnovers that Minnesota effectively converted into 28 points.
“They possess size, agility, and a relentless defensive approach,” commented Lakers coach J.J. Redick. “Turnovers were inevitable with such an aggressive defense.”
Julius Randle, once a first-round pick by the Lakers and now with the Timberwolves, exhibited palpable enthusiasm for his first home playoff encounter with Minnesota, after a postseason absence last year. His presence was significant across the floor, going 9 for 10 from the free-throw line, helping assert a dominating 56-26 advantage in points in the paint.
On the defensive end, McDaniels effectively shadowed Doncic, who struggled early to find his rhythm. Doncic only mustered eight points by halftime, with a late step-back 28-footer over Edwards illustrating his challenging start.