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The Los Angeles Lakers' aspirations for a deep playoff run were cut short as they fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a 4-1 series defeat during the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Despite boasting two of the best players in Luka Doncic and LeBron James, the Lakers couldn't overcome the Timberwolves' dynamic play, as they were dealt the final blow in a 103-96 loss in Game 5 at Crypto.com Arena.
James, 40, delivered a mixed performance throughout the series. He averaged 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over five games. Although he shined the brightest in Game 3's loss, where he scored 38 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, he had questionable performances, particularly in Game 1 and 5, where he struggled to score in the fourth quarter.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30).Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Reflecting on the series in a sit-down with Steve Nash on his "Mind the Game" podcast, James acknowledged the challenge posed by the Timberwolves:
"When it comes to the postseason, matchups don't determine how well of a regular season you've had," James said. "It's the matchups, and we ran into a damn good matchup. A team that's been battle-tested, a team that has a lot of youth, and also experience. They were a worthy opponent, that's for sure."
James also expressed confidence in the Timberwolves' potential to advance further, suggesting they could reach the Western Conference Finals.
The Timberwolves are set to face the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Semifinals. The Warriors secured a 99-88 victory in Game 1, despite losing star player Stephen Curry to a Grade 1 hamstring strain early in the game.
Curry is expected to miss at least a week, potentially sidelining him for the next few games of the series (via ESPN's Shams Charania). The Timberwolves will aim to capitalize on his absence and even the series on Thursday.
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James, 40, delivered a mixed performance throughout the series. He averaged 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over five games. Although he shined the brightest in Game 3's loss, where he scored 38 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, he had questionable performances, particularly in Game 1 and 5, where he struggled to score in the fourth quarter.
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Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30).Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Reflecting on the series in a sit-down with Steve Nash on his "Mind the Game" podcast, James acknowledged the challenge posed by the Timberwolves:
"When it comes to the postseason, matchups don't determine how well of a regular season you've had," James said. "It's the matchups, and we ran into a damn good matchup. A team that's been battle-tested, a team that has a lot of youth, and also experience. They were a worthy opponent, that's for sure."
James also expressed confidence in the Timberwolves' potential to advance further, suggesting they could reach the Western Conference Finals.
The Timberwolves are set to face the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Semifinals. The Warriors secured a 99-88 victory in Game 1, despite losing star player Stephen Curry to a Grade 1 hamstring strain early in the game.
Curry is expected to miss at least a week, potentially sidelining him for the next few games of the series (via ESPN's Shams Charania). The Timberwolves will aim to capitalize on his absence and even the series on Thursday.
Related: Lakers Make Austin Reaves Decision After Loss to Timberwolves
Related: Luka Doncic Reacts to Major Retirement Announcement
Related: Luka Doncic Reacts to Major Retirement Announcement
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