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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
LeBron James (LAL): 33 PTS, 17 REB, 6 AST
Austin Reaves (LAL): 23 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST
Luka Dončić (LAL): 21 PTS, 13 REB, 5 AST
Terrence Shannon Jr. (MIN): 25 PTS, 5 REB
Anthony Edwards (MIN): 18 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST
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