The Minnesota Timberwolves faced the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs, coming away with a critical 116–113 victory. With the win, the Timberwolves take a commanding 3–1 lead in the series, moving one step closer to advancing. Anthony Edwards once again led the way with a sensational performance, highlighted by a controversial foul drawn against LeBron James late in the game.
The key moment came during the Timberwolves’ final offensive possession. Initially, officials ruled that the ball went out of bounds off Edwards, which would have given the Lakers a chance to regain the lead. However, head coach Chris Finch successfully challenged the call. Upon review, the referees overturned the original decision, assessed a foul on James, and awarded Edwards two crucial free throws that ultimately sealed the Timberwolves’ victory.
In his postgame press conference, Edwards made it clear he believed he was fouled. Replay footage supported his case, further vindicating Minnesota’s challenge. “I knew he fouled me, man, because he swiped down real hard and hit my arm. That was a great overturn by the refs, we appreciate them,” Edwards said.
Edwards continues to build his playoff legacy by consistently outshining some of the NBA’s biggest stars. In Game 4, he finished with a monster performance — 43 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists — and showed no hesitation when attacking the Lakers’ defense. His fearless mentality has been a defining trait throughout this postseason run.
Edwards sends strong message to Lakers and LeBron
Edwards clashed with LeBron James multiple times during the game and made it clear he was unafraid of the moment. After the win, he revealed his mindset, sending a pointed message to James and the rest of the Lakers. “I just wanted to let him know that we’re here and they’re not going to punk us,” Edwards said.
LeBron and Doncic fall short despite big performances
LeBron James and Luka Doncic fought hard to keep the Lakers’ hopes alive. James logged 46 minutes and posted 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists, including a 15-of-18 effort from the free-throw line. Doncic complemented him with 38 points, 1 rebound, and 2 assists, hitting 12 of 28 shots from the field and all 7 free throws. However, defensive struggles, particularly from Doncic, left openings that Edwards and the Timberwolves exploited throughout the night.
Despite strong efforts from their stars, the Lakers find themselves on the brink of elimination as Minnesota rides the incredible momentum generated by Edwards’ playoff brilliance.