Sun Apr 20 03:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Timberwolves Upset Lakers in Playoff Opener, Riding Hot Shooting to 117-95 Victory
**Los Angeles, CA** – The Minnesota Timberwolves stunned the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series, securing a decisive 117-95 victory on Saturday night. Despite a 37-point performance from Luka Dončić in his Lakers playoff debut, Minnesota’s balanced attack proved too much for the home team.
Jaden McDaniels led the Timberwolves with 25 points, while Naz Reid added 23, including six three-pointers. Anthony Edwards contributed a well-rounded 22 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. The Wolves’ success hinged on their exceptional three-point shooting, setting a franchise playoff record with 21 made three-pointers on 42 attempts.
Dončić’s impressive 16-point first quarter briefly gave the Lakers hope, but Minnesota dominated the second quarter (38-20) and maintained control throughout the game. LeBron James, playing in his 18th NBA postseason, managed 19 points, but the Lakers struggled to contain the Wolves’ offensive firepower and composure.
The Timberwolves’ victory underscores their playoff experience and team chemistry, a stark contrast to the Lakers, who are still integrating Dončić after his recent acquisition. Minnesota’s 18 wins in their last 22 games highlight their strong finish to the regular season. While Los Angeles mounted a late fourth-quarter rally, the Timberwolves comfortably held on, extending their winning streak.
Game 2 will take place on Tuesday night in Los Angeles, with the Lakers looking to bounce back and even the series. The tightly contested Western Conference standings saw the Lakers secure home-court advantage by the narrowest of margins, winning 50 games compared to Minnesota’s 49.
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