The Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves delivered one of the most thrilling and evenly matched games of the playoffs. Luka Doncic scored 38 points, while LeBron James added 27. However, Anthony Edwards stole the spotlight with a standout performance. After the game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick described Edwards‘ impact in detail, and many took his words as genuine praise.
“He’s a difficult player…I think there are certain lineups that you can look at that they play, where we could’ve mixed in some different things when they have their shooters out there. It’s tough to kind of mix in fires. We tried to fire multiple times; it wasn’t communicated well…We did end up trying to blitz him. He raced it both times, and they scored. So, you know, he’s a very dynamic offensive player,” stated JJ Redick on press conference.
Anthony Edwards dominated the Lakers’ defense all night. The young star scored 43 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists. He finished as the best statistical player of the game and showed why he continues to rise. In addition, after the game, Edwards reached a major milestone by becoming the youngest NBA player to hit 100 career three-pointers in the playoffs. This achievement once again demonstrated his impressive impact on the league despite his young age.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves, but other players also played a key role in the victory. For example, Julius Randle scored 25 points and provided a strong offensive push. In addition, Jaden McDaniels grabbed 11 rebounds, while Rudy Gobert added 10 rebounds to dominate the boards. Together, they showed that the Timberwolves rely on more than just Anthony Edwards.
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.
JJ Redick gives his opinion on the controversial non-foul on Luka Doncic by Jaden McDaniels
In the final minutes of the fourth quarter, Jaden McDaniels closely defended Luka Doncic. During the play, McDaniels made contact with Doncic’s left foot, causing Luka to lose his balance. However, the referees chose not to call a foul. As a result, the Lakers missed a potential trip to the free-throw line while trailing 114-113.
see also
LeBron James receives high praise from Lakers head coach JJ Redick given his standout playoff performance
Following the controversial sequence, JJ Redick made his opinion clear during a press conference. “Luka got tripped. That was a blatant trip. He doesn’t just fall on his own. We should have been at the free throw line. He got fouled,” stated on press conference.
Even so, the Lakers’ loss cannot be blamed solely on the referee’s decision. Poor defense played a major role, as Luka Doncic notably struggled to assert himself on that end of the court. In contrast, LeBron James showed a strong commitment on defense and became one of the team’s most impactful players during the fourth quarter. Therefore, if the Lakers hope to advance, they must deliver a much stronger collective effort on the defensive end.
SurveyDo you believe Luka Doncic’s non-foul call could have swung the game in the Lakers’ favor?
Do you believe Luka Doncic’s non-foul call could have swung the game in the Lakers’ favor?
already voted 0 people
