Sat Apr 26 05:41:08 UTC 2025: **Timberwolves Take 2-1 Series Lead Over Lakers Despite LeBron’s 38-Point Performance**
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 116-104 in Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series Friday night, taking a 2-1 series lead. LeBron James led the Lakers with a game-high 38 points and 10 rebounds, but the Timberwolves’ balanced scoring attack proved too much to overcome.
Jaden McDaniels led the Timberwolves with 30 points, while Anthony Edwards added 29 and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 22. The Timberwolves dominated the second half, outscoring the Lakers 62-46. A key stretch in the fourth quarter, featuring clutch three-pointers from Edwards and Naz Reid (who added 11 points off the bench), sealed the victory for Minnesota. Edwards’ late-game heroics, including a dazzling between-the-legs move and a step-back three-pointer, electrified the home crowd.
For the Lakers, Austin Reaves scored 20 points, and Luka Dončić contributed 17 points, but struggled with his shot and turnovers. Despite James’ impressive performance, the Lakers couldn’t overcome the Timberwolves’ strong second-half surge and efficient offensive production.
The series shifts back to Minneapolis for Game 4 on Sunday.
**Bucks and Magic also win Game 3s**
In other playoff action, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 37 points led the Milwaukee Bucks to a 117-101 win over the Indiana Pacers, narrowing the series deficit to 2-1. Game 4 will be held Sunday in Milwaukee. Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic edged out the Boston Celtics 95-93, with Franz Wagner’s late-game heroics securing a 2-1 series lead for Orlando. Game 4 will also take place on Sunday in Orlando.
First Piper 