Lakers Drop Game 1 to Timberwolves

The Los Angeles Lakers fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves 117–95 in Game 1 of their playoff series on April 19, 2025. Despite LeBron James contributing 19 points, the Lakers struggled to find rhythm throughout the game. Luka Dončić led the team with 37 points but had difficulty creating for others, finishing with just one assist. The Timberwolves capitalized on L.A.’s defensive lapses, shooting 50% from beyond the arc and outscoring the Lakers 25–6 in fast-break points. With Game 2 on the horizon, the Lakers will need to adjust their offense and improve defensively to avoid falling further behind in the series.