The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024-25 season came to an end on Wednesday night, as they fell 103-96 to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series. The Timberwolves clinched the series 4-1, marking a disappointing early exit for a Lakers team that had championship aspirations.
In Game 5, the Lakers struggled from the outset, trailing 31-22 after the first quarter. Despite efforts to rally in the second and third quarters, they were unable to overcome the deficit. Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 28 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds, while LeBron James contributed 22 points.
Rui Hachimura added 23 points, but the team was hampered by poor early defense, turnovers, and inefficient shooting. Austin Reaves had a tough night, recording six turnovers and scoring 12 points on 2-of-10 shooting from beyond the arc.
The Timberwolves were propelled by a dominant performance from Rudy Gobert, who posted 27 points and 24 rebounds, effectively controlling the paint and limiting the Lakers’ second-chance opportunities.
Following the loss, Lakers head coach JJ Redick addressed the media, reflecting on the team’s season and the outcome of the series. Redick, in his first year as head coach after transitioning from a broadcasting career, expressed a mix of emotions.
“There’s always a mix of disappointment and gratitude,” Redick said. “Certainly disappointed and not something I ever envisioned with this team, having to go in and talk to them after losing in the first round. But give Minnesota a lot of credit. They’re a really good basketball team. I think our guys played hard enough and did all the right things. We tried to make it work with what we had, and came up short.”
Redick on his message to the team after the loss:
“There’s always a mix of disappointment and gratitude. Certainly disappointed and not something I ever envisioned with this team, having to go in and talk to them after losing in the first round. But give Minnesota a lot of…
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) May 1, 2025
The Lakers’ season was marked by significant changes, including the mid-season acquisition of Doncic in a blockbuster trade for Anthony Davis. While Doncic and James formed a formidable duo, the team struggled with consistency and depth, factors that ultimately contributed to their early playoff exit.
As the Lakers enter the offseason, questions loom regarding roster adjustments and strategies to better support their star players. Redick’s inaugural coaching season provided valuable experience, and the organization will look to build upon this foundation in pursuit of a deeper playoff run next year.
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