JJ Redick Explains Why Lakers Played So Poorly Against Timberwolves In Game 1
JJ Redick Explains Why Lakers Played So Poorly Against Timberwolves In Game 1
The Los Angeles Lakers squared off against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of their postseason series at Crypto.com Arena. Early on, the Lakers managed to snag a slight advantage heading into the second quarter.
But that didn’t last. The Timberwolves quickly flipped the script with a burst of scoring and a level of physicality that felt almost overwhelming at times.
Key Details:
- Teams Involved: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
- Final Score: Timberwolves 117, Lakers 95
- Largest Lead: Timberwolves ahead by 27 points
Minnesota’s edge really came down to their size and the way they leaned into physical play. The Lakers, interestingly, didn’t stick with a traditional center for much of the game.
Instead, they rolled out small-ball lineups, with Dorian Finney-Smith taking on the center spot—definitely undersized for that role. That left them exposed in the paint, and honestly, it showed against the Timberwolves’ bigger, more aggressive frontcourt.
Statistical Insights:
| Category | Lakers | Timberwolves |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal % | Under 40% | Higher |
| Three-Pointers Made | Fewer | 21 (Franchise Record) |
| Fastbreak Points | Significantly Lower | 19 More |
Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels were everywhere for Minnesota, making life tough for the Lakers on both ends. Los Angeles just couldn’t get much going on offense, aside from one guy who managed to stand out.
LeBron James and the rest of the Lakers’ core didn’t have an answer for Minnesota’s energy, especially after halftime.
JJ Redick pointed out how hard it was to keep up with Minnesota’s tempo and intensity. He really emphasized the physical side of it, too.
“I’m not sure, physically, we were ready”
Lakers HC JJ Redick on Game 1 against Minnesota pic.twitter.com/TAmpzEQo39
— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 20, 2025
The Timberwolves kept turning defense into quick transition buckets, which padded their fastbreak numbers and made the lead feel insurmountable at times.
If the playoff series is going to get interesting, the Lakers are going to have to figure out how to match that size and energy. Otherwise, things could get away from them in this Western Conference matchup.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
