In a thrilling playoff showdown on April 27, 2025, the Minnesota Timberwolves edged out the Los Angeles Lakers with a nail-biting 116-113 victory, taking a commanding 3-1 lead in their best-of-seven series. The game showcased the brilliance of Anthony Edwards, who delivered a stellar performance with 43 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, leading his team to the brink of the second round of the NBA playoffs.
The contest began with both teams trading baskets in an evenly matched opening quarter. Julius Randle set the tone for the Timberwolves, scoring the first seven points of the game. Yet, the Lakers quickly responded, with Luka Doncic hitting a three-pointer that sparked a run, allowing Los Angeles to finish the first quarter with a slight edge, 32-28.
As the second quarter unfolded, the Lakers appeared to take control, with LeBron James contributing 10 points to help build an 8-point lead. However, Minnesota's Edwards ignited a comeback, scoring 10 points in the final minutes of the half to bring the Timberwolves back into contention. The quarter ended with Randle hitting a three-pointer, giving the Timberwolves a narrow 61-58 lead at halftime.
Following the intermission, the Timberwolves struggled to maintain their momentum. The Lakers capitalized on a strong defensive effort, holding Minnesota scoreless for the first five minutes of the third quarter. During this stretch, Doncic and Austin Reaves helped Los Angeles extend their lead to 11 points. But Edwards refused to let his team falter, scoring early in the quarter to keep the Timberwolves within striking distance.
Despite their best efforts, Minnesota faced challenges as the quarter progressed. A timeout called by Lakers coach JJ Redick was intended to halt the Timberwolves' momentum, but the Lakers maintained their lead, ending the third quarter up 94-84.
The final quarter began with both teams struggling offensively, but it was the Timberwolves who found their rhythm first. Edwards continued to shine, drawing a foul from Doncic and converting three free throws to give Minnesota a 105-104 lead. The back-and-forth nature of the game intensified as Hachimura responded with a perimeter shot, regaining the lead for the Lakers.
In the final minutes, the tension reached a fever pitch. With the score tight, the Timberwolves executed a series of plays that showcased their resilience and teamwork. Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo contributed crucial baskets, pushing Minnesota ahead 111-107. The Lakers, however, were not done yet, as Reaves hit a three-pointer and LeBron made a key block, setting up Finney-Smith for another three-pointer, putting Los Angeles ahead 113-111.
With just seconds remaining, the drama escalated. Edwards was fouled by LeBron, sending him to the free-throw line. He calmly sank both shots, giving Minnesota a 115-113 lead. The Lakers had one last chance to tie the game, but Reaves' three-point attempt rimmed out as time expired, sealing the Timberwolves' victory.
This win puts Minnesota one step closer to advancing in the playoffs, and they will look to close out the series in Game 5 on April 30 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The Timberwolves are riding high on the momentum from this victory, while the Lakers will need to regroup and find a way to overcome their playoff challenges.
Statistically, the game was a showcase of talent on both sides. For the Lakers, Luka Doncic led with 38 points, while LeBron James contributed 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists. Rui Hachimura added 23 points and Austin Reaves scored 17 points. The Lakers struggled with their three-point shooting, making only 19 of 47 attempts.
On the Timberwolves' side, alongside Edwards, Randle scored 25 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, while Jaden McDaniels added 16 points and 11 rebounds. Minnesota was more efficient from beyond the arc, hitting 14 of 36 three-point attempts, with Edwards going 5 for 10.
The upcoming Game 5 promises to be an electrifying encounter as both teams vie for a critical win in this playoff series. With the Timberwolves poised to advance and the Lakers fighting for survival, fans can expect nothing less than a thrilling battle on the court.
