Overview

• The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 117–95 in Game 1 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals, securing a 1–0 series lead.
• Luka Doncic scored a game-high 37 points in his Lakers playoff debut, but the team struggled with physicality and depth beyond its stars.
• Minnesota's balanced attack was led by Anthony Edwards (22 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists), Jaden McDaniels (25 points), and Naz Reid (23 points off the bench).
• The Lakers' bench contributed just 13 points, while Minnesota capitalized on wide-open looks, shooting 21-of-42 from three-point range.
• Facing a thin frontcourt and a physical Timberwolves team, the Lakers must adjust quickly to avoid falling into a daunting 0–2 deficit in Game 2 on Tuesday.