LeBron James delivered a dominant performance to propel the Los Angeles Lakers to a 111-102 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday night.
James recorded 33 points, 17 rebounds, and six assists, leading the Lakers in a balanced offensive display. Austin Reaves added 23 points, while Luka Dončić contributed 21 points and 13 rebounds. The Lakers outlasted Minnesota in a physical contest, overcoming a fourth-quarter push from the visitors.
The Timberwolves were led by Terrence Shannon Jr., who came off the bench to score a team-high 25 points on 9-of-15 shooting. Anthony Edwards added 18 points and six rebounds, while Jaden McDaniels contributed 15 points and eight boards.
The game remained close throughout, with the Lakers edging the Timberwolves in field goal percentage (41.5% to 41.7%) and free throws (69.6% to 76.9%). Despite struggling from beyond the arc at 26.8%, Los Angeles capitalized on second-chance opportunities, outrebounding Minnesota 52-41.
James made key plays down the stretch, including a series of free throws and a clutch turnaround fadeaway in the final two minutes. Minnesota attempted a late rally, cutting the deficit to seven points with 30 seconds left, but Los Angeles sealed the win at the line.
Reaves was instrumental in the fourth quarter, hitting timely shots and sinking 11-of-12 free throws overall. Dončić, despite an inefficient night from deep (1-of-9), controlled the glass and facilitated crucial possessions.
Minnesota’s struggles from three-point range (29.3%) and costly turnovers in key moments hampered their comeback efforts. Naz Reid, typically a reliable inside presence, managed only three points on 1-of-10 shooting but grabbed 12 rebounds.
With the win, the Lakers improved to 35-21 on the season, maintaining their push for playoff positioning. The Timberwolves, now 32-27, will look to rebound in their next outing.
Key Stats:
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LeBron James (LAL): 33 PTS, 17 REB, 6 AST
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Austin Reaves (LAL): 23 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST
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Luka Dončić (LAL): 21 PTS, 13 REB, 5 AST
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Terrence Shannon Jr. (MIN): 25 PTS, 5 REB
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Anthony Edwards (MIN): 18 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST
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