Recap: Lakers Hang On For Ugly Win Against Timberwolves

After defeating the Timberwolves on Opening Night, the Lakers dropped their next two matchups against them. Looking to even the season series, Los Angeles managed to do just that with a hard-fought 111-102 victory—extending their winning streak to four games.

Austin Reaves opened the scoring with a deep three to beat the shot clock, while Luka Dončić responded with a series of slick buckets and assists to give his team an early lead. However, the Lakers quickly found their rhythm, with LeBron James banking in a three-pointer and Dončić completing a three-point play to push the lead into double digits. Strong defensive play helped L.A. dominate the first quarter, ending with a commanding 33-17 lead.

Tensions flared late in the first, as Anthony Edwards and Jarred Vanderbilt received double technicals after a brief altercation. The Lakers continued their offensive surge in the second quarter, with James, Jordan Goodwin, and Rui Hachimura all hitting from deep to extend the lead to 23 points.

Edwards, determined to keep his team in the game, led a mini-comeback with his scoring and playmaking. The Timberwolves managed to trim the deficit to 11 at halftime, with the Lakers leading 58-47 after a sluggish close to the quarter.

Early in the third, Hachimura appeared to tweak his knee on a fastbreak and was forced to head to the locker room. He was later ruled out with a left knee strain. The Lakers regained momentum, and Edwards’ frustration boiled over as he picked up his second technical foul, leading to an ejection.

Despite their advantage, the Lakers struggled at the free-throw line, missing key opportunities to build their lead. James carried the offensive load, helping L.A. take an 84-73 lead into the fourth quarter.

Even without Edwards, the Timberwolves refused to fold. They put together an 11-0 run, cutting the Lakers’ lead to just four at 92-88. L.A.’s offensive struggles continued, as they went cold from beyond the arc and at the free-throw line.

After a long scoring drought, Dončić provided a much-needed spark, converting a three-point play and sinking a tough circus three-pointer to give the Lakers some breathing room. They sealed the win down the stretch by finally knocking down free throws, securing the 111-102 victory.