The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a convincing 109-80 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night. The Lakers, limited to their season-low scoring total, struggled to find a rhythm as Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves’ defense proved too strong. Apart from the Wolves’ defense, the Lakers’ lacked offensively as LeBron James extended his missed three-point streak to 24 shots in the last five games.
With this loss, the Lakers fell to a 12-9 record, sliding from sixth to eighth place in the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves improved to 10-10, climbing into the 10th spot.
Lakers Held to Season-Low As The Minnesota Timberwolves Lock Down Lakers in Convincing Win
Anthony Edwards had a quiet night, scoring just eight points on 3-for-13 shooting, including 1-for-5 from three-point range. However, Minnesota’s win was driven by strong contributions from other players. Julius Randle led the effort for the Timberwolves with 18 points, five rebounds, and three assists while maintaining efficient shooting at 6-for-13 from the floor. Rudy Gobert dominated inside, tallying 17 points and 12 rebounds while shooting an efficient 7-for-8 from the field.
Naz Reid provided a spark off the bench, contributing 15 points, two steals, and two blocks. Nickeil Alexander-Walker also added 15 points, connecting on 6-for-11 shots, including two three-pointers. Veteran Mike Conley facilitated the offense effectively with nine points and six assists, while Donte DiVincenzo stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points, nine assists, and five rebounds.
The Lakers’ shooting was a key factor in their defeat. They shot just 6-for-31 from beyond the arc, while the Timberwolves found success with 15-for-35 shooting from three-point range. D’Angelo Russell was the leading scorer for the Lakers with 20 points, three rebounds, and five assists. Anthony Davis added 12 points and 11 rebounds. But his struggles from long range (0-for-2) reflected the team’s overall shooting issues.
LeBron James had a tough night, finishing with 10 points, four rebounds, and two assists. But struggled with his shooting, going 4-for-16 from the field and 0-for-4 from three-point range. Rui Hachimura also contributed 10 points, while rookie Dalton Knecht added 6 points. Unfortunately, no other Lakers players were able to step up and make a significant impact.
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With this victory, the Timberwolves are now set to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Lakers will be looking to bounce back when they encounter the Miami Heat on the same night.