In a commanding performance that flipped the script on seeding expectations, the Minnesota Timberwolves stormed into Crypto.com Arena and handed the Los Angeles Lakers a humbling 117-95 defeat to open their Western Conference first-round playoff series.
Behind a dynamic team display headlined by Jaden McDaniels’ 25 points and a bench burst from Naz Reid, the sixth-seeded Timberwolves looked nothing like underdogs. With Anthony Edwards orchestrating the offence and bringing relentless energy on both ends of the floor, Minnesota raced out to a sizeable lead and never looked back — at one point extending their advantage to 27 points.
For the Lakers, who came into the series riding a wave of optimism after acquiring Luka Doncic in February, Game 1 was nothing short of a wake-up call.
McDaniels, Reid and Edwards Lead Relentless Timberwolves
Much of the pre-series chatter focused on Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle as the key figures for Minnesota. But on Saturday night, it was Jaden McDaniels who stole the spotlight, erupting for 25 points and setting the tone early with confident shot-making and defensive aggression.
McDaniels’ offensive outburst was complemented by Naz Reid, who delivered 23 points off the bench — his energy and spacing proving too much for the Lakers’ second unit. Edwards, meanwhile, put in a near triple-double performance with 22 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists, constantly making the right read whether attacking the rim or facilitating for teammates.
Minnesota shot efficiently (51.2% from the field) and outmuscled the Lakers on the boards and in the paint. Their defensive rotations were sharp, limiting Los Angeles to just 43.5% shooting and forcing 15 turnovers.
Doncic Scores 37, But It’s Not Enough
Luka Doncic made his playoff debut in purple and gold, and from an individual perspective, he did not disappoint. The former Mavericks star poured in 37 points on a variety of step-backs, drives, and fast-break finishes. But his effort was largely unsupported.
LeBron James, in his 22nd NBA season and chasing ring number five, failed to score in the first quarter and managed just 19 points total. The rest of the Lakers’ supporting cast failed to step up — with no other player scoring more than 12 points.
The defensive presence of Anthony Davis, traded to the Mavericks in the deal that brought Doncic in, was clearly missed. Jaxson Hayes struggled to fill that void inside, and Minnesota took full advantage.
Betting Tips Recap: A Tough Night for the Home Favourites
Our America Bet betting preview projected the Lakers to edge this one at home, but Minnesota’s emphatic performance made that prediction obsolete before the fourth quarter.
Still, a few of our betting angles held up nicely:
❌ Anthony Edwards Over 26.5 Points – Missed, finishing on 22, but contributed 9 assists and 8 boards.
✅ Doncic Over 27.5 Points – Hit comfortably with 37.
❌ Lakers to Win (Moneyline) – Missed by a mile.
❌ Game Total Under 222.5 – Missed with 212 points, but close.
❌ LeBron Over 8.5 Assists – Missed.
✅ Doncic to Score First 3-Pointer – Delivered early.
❌ Lakers -5.5 Spread – Decisive miss.
❌ Edwards 30+ Points – Missed narrowly, but his all-around play was key.
❌ Randle Double-Double – Randle played a supporting role, more value in Reid’s performance.
Takeaway: While the result didn’t favour Los Angeles backers, those who trusted in Doncic’s scoring and Minnesota’s depth — particularly Naz Reid and McDaniels — were rewarded with strong prop results.
What Comes Next?
The Lakers now face a stern test. With home-court advantage already surrendered, Game 2 becomes pivotal. If LeBron and Doncic can’t find more support — particularly from their frontcourt and bench — the Wolves could take a stranglehold on the series.
Minnesota, meanwhile, will be focused on consistency. Randle still hasn’t hit top gear, and if Edwards takes over scoring duties next time out, the Lakers could face an even tougher challenge.
Saturday’s result proved one thing clearly: this is no typical 3 vs 6 matchup. Minnesota looks built for the big stage, and the Lakers — if they want to avoid an early exit — will need to evolve, and fast.
