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Lakers Even Series with Timberwolves Behind Doncic and James' Dominance

Los Angeles bounces back in Game 2 with a 94-85 win, driven by Luka Doncic's near triple-double and an improved defensive effort.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic goes to the basket against Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert and forward Jaden McDaniels during the second half of Game 2 of an NBA basketball first-round playoff in Los Angeles, Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
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Apr 22, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots the ball while  Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (43) defends during game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Apr 22, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) goes to the basket between Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) and guard Mike Conley (10) during the fourth quarter of game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 31 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists, including 16 points in the first quarter to set the tone for the game.
  • LeBron James contributed 21 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists while playing a key defensive role to maintain the Lakers' lead in critical moments.
  • Los Angeles tightened its defense, holding Minnesota to 5-for-25 shooting from three-point range and limiting fastbreak points to 6, a stark contrast to Game 1.
  • Coach JJ Redick's fiery third-quarter timeout sparked a 9-0 run, helping the Lakers rebuild their lead after Minnesota cut the deficit to 11 points.
  • The series now shifts to Minnesota for Games 3 and 4, where the Lakers must secure a road victory to regain home-court advantage.