The Los Angeles Lakers were hit with a harsh reality in Game 1 of their first-round NBA playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite boasting big-name talent, the Lakers quickly learned that star power alone doesn’t guarantee victories in the postseason. Among the underperformers was guard Austin Reaves, who struggled in the 117–95 loss and spoke candidly afterward.
While the loss at Crypto.com Arena was disappointing, Reaves emphasized that the series is far from over. The Lakers still need to be beaten three more times, and the focus is now on bouncing back in Game 2.
“I think that kind of was the mood. You don’t win or lose a series in one game,” Reaves said. “We have an opportunity on Tuesday to even up the series on our home court and go compete for two games on their home court. You never lose after the first game, second game, third game, to be honest. You gotta get beat four times or you gotta win four times. That’s the outlook. We know we didn’t play very well. If we play to our standards, then we’ll get better.”
With LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Reaves forming a high-profile trio, a 0–2 deficit would not only put the Lakers on the brink of elimination—it could go down as one of the most disappointing outcomes in recent NBA postseason history. Game 2 is now a must-win.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers directs a play as he is guarded by Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first half at Crypto.com Arena on February 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
Reaves on Minnesota’s sharpshooting and defensive lapses
The Lakers held a seven-point lead after the first quarter, but Minnesota’s three-point shooting barrage turned the tide quickly. By halftime, the Wolves had seized a double-digit lead, and that momentum carried into the third quarter. Reaves noted the lack of defensive urgency, even on shots that aligned with the team’s original game plan.
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“To start that third quarter, I think they made three or four in a row, basically all uncontested,” Reaves said. “Regardless of what the game plan is, you don’t want to give up those. We play in the NBA, and regardless of what percentage you shoot, if you have a practice shot, you have an opportunity to make it. So like I said, we’ll watch the film and get better.”
Matching the Timberwolves’ physicality
If the Lakers want to avoid heading to Minnesota down 0–2, they’ll need to respond with a much more physical and disciplined performance in Game 2. Reaves pointed out that the Timberwolves simply imposed their will from the opening tip.
“I think they just physically beat us from the get-go,” he said. “Neither team has played in about a week, but they came out with more aggression and physicality to their game, and that helped them win tonight. I think that’s really it.” With Game 2 looming, the Lakers’ playoff hopes depend on more than just their stars—they need grit, execution, and urgency.
