Overview
- The Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the NBA playoffs in the first round, losing the series 1–4 to the Minnesota Timberwolves after a 96–103 defeat in Game 5.
- Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 28 points despite playing through back pain from an earlier fall, while LeBron James contributed 22 points but struggled in the final quarter.
- Minnesota’s Rudy Gobert dominated with 27 points, 24 rebounds, and two blocks, propelling the Timberwolves into the next round and solidifying their status as title contenders.
- Maximilian Kleber made his Lakers debut after recovering from a foot injury, scoring two points in five minutes but committing a late turnover.
- LeBron James, 40, left his NBA future uncertain, stating post-game that he needs time with his family to decide whether he will continue playing next season.