NBA playoffs: The Los Angeles Lakers are back in the fight! In Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs first round, they defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 94–85. It looked like a comfortable win on the scoreboard, but it was far from easy. With this victory, the series is now tied 1-1 as it heads to Minnesota for Game 3 on Friday night at the Target Center.
NBA playoffs Big Win, Tough Battle – Lakers Take Game 2
Fast Start Sets the Tone for LA
NBA playoffs: The Lakers came out strong in the first quarter, taking a double-digit lead early. They were up 34–15 after the first 12 minutes and never let Minnesota get closer than nine points the rest of the game. It looked like LA might cruise to an easy win, but things got messy later.
Tars Step Up: Luka and LeBron Lead the Way
Luka Dončić was the engine behind the Lakers’ offense. He scored 31 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and dished out 9 assists. He was especially hot in the first quarter, scoring 16 points and setting the tone for the game.
LeBron James – Leading by Example
LeBron James showed why he’s still one of the best. He added 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists. On defense, he brought intensity and energy, especially when stopping the Timberwolves’ star players from getting comfortable.
Together, Luka and LeBron combined for 52 points and 16 assists – a powerful performance that helped LA stay ahead even when the game got rough.
Not a Pretty Game – But a Win’s a Win
NBA playoffs. Despite the win, this wasn’t a perfect game for the Lakers. Head coach JJ Redick was seen yelling at his players in the fourth quarter when Minnesota started closing the gap. There were lots of missed shots and sloppy plays. The two teams together made only 11 of 54 three-point attempts and committed 46 fouls. It was a physical, sometimes frustrating game.
The Lakers also struggled to keep up the same energy they had at the start. Their plan to get favorable matchups – especially Dončić attacking Rudy Gobert on the outside – worked at first but became less effective as the Timberwolves adjusted.
Timberwolves Miss Opportunity to Steal a Win
Minnesota had a chance to steal the win, especially in the second half. But except for Julius Randle, no one played consistently well. Randle kept the Wolves in the game with his effort and scoring, but he couldn’t do it alone.
Other players like Jaden McDaniels, Mike Conley, Donte DiVincenzo, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker had a rough night. They shot a combined 8-for-26 from the field. Even Anthony Edwards, their usual star, had an off night. He scored 25 points but needed 22 shots to get there.
NBA Playoffs 2025 – Game 2 Summary Table
| Category | Los Angeles Lakers | Minnesota Timberwolves |
|---|
| Final Score | 94 | 85 |
| Series Status | 1 – 1 (Tied) | 1 – 1 (Tied) |
| Top Scorer | Luka Dončić – 31 pts | Anthony Edwards – 25 pts |
| Rebounds Leader | Dončić – 12 | Rudy Gobert – 11 |
| Assists Leader | Dončić – 9 | Conley – 6 |
| 3PT Shooting | 5/27 (18.5%) | 6/27 (22.2%) |
| Free Throws | 20/25 | 18/20 |
| Total Fouls | 22 | 24 |
| Field Goal % | 42% | 38% |
| Turnovers | 13 | 15 |
What’s Next – Can the Lakers Keep It Going in Minnesota?
Both coaches looked unhappy during the game – it was that kind of night. But for the Lakers, getting the win was the most important thing. Now, the big question is: Can they keep the momentum going in a tough environment in Minnesota?
Game 3 is set for Friday at 9:30 p.m. ET. The Timberwolves were strong at home during the regular season, so the Lakers will need to be even better if they want to take the lead in the series.
