The Los Angeles Lakers bounced back in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 94–85 and evening the series at 1–1. Luka Dončić led the charge with 31 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists, nearly recording a triple-double. LeBron James contributed 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Austin Reaves added 16 points.
The Lakers came out strong, building a commanding 34–15 lead in the first quarter. Dončić exploited matchups against Rudy Gobert, even taunting him with a “sub him out” remark after a successful floater.
Despite a scoring drought in the fourth quarter that allowed the Timberwolves to cut into the lead, key plays from Reaves and James in the closing minutes helped the Lakers secure the win. The defense was a decisive factor throughout, particularly in limiting key Minnesota players like Naz Reid and pressuring Rudy Gobert.
The Timberwolves’ offense struggled, shooting 38% from the field and hitting only five three-pointers. Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 27 and 25 points, respectively.
Game 3 is set for Friday in Minneapolis, where both teams will look to gain the upper hand in this tightly contested series.