The Los Angeles Lakers faced the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 4 of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs, suffering a tough 116–113 loss that leaves them on the brink of elimination. The Timberwolves, led by a sensational Anthony Edwards, now hold a commanding 3–1 series lead. The game was highlighted by a controversial foul involving LeBron James and Edwards during a crucial late-game possession.
Lakers star LeBron James made it clear he disagreed with the call that effectively sealed the loss for Los Angeles. Addressing the media after the game, James voiced his frustration with the decision.
“That play happens all the time,” James said. “Hand is part of the ball. That’s what they say. I felt like the hand was a part of that ball. His hand was on top of that ball, and the ball stripped out on him. Seen that play over and over before, but it is what it is.”
With his comments, James subtly criticized both the officials’ ruling and Edwards’ postgame remarks, firmly disagreeing with the outcome by emphasizing the “hand is part of the ball” principle. Despite the loss, James delivered a strong performance, logging 46 minutes and finishing with 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists, including an impressive 15-of-18 showing from the free-throw line.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers directs a play as he is guarded by Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
What did Edwards say about the foul?
The key moment occurred during the Timberwolves‘ final offensive possession. Initially, officials ruled the ball out of bounds off Edwards, which would have given the Lakers a crucial opportunity to take the lead. However, Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch challenged the call. After video review, the officials overturned the decision, assessed a foul on James, and awarded Edwards two free throws.
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In his postgame press conference, Edwards stood by his belief that the foul was clear. Replay footage supported his claim, further validating the Timberwolves’ 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.
A night full of controversies
Beyond the James-Edwards controversy, another major officiating dispute erupted involving Luka Doncic. Many argued that Doncic was clearly tripped without a foul being called, adding to the tension surrounding the officiating. Lakers interim coach JJ Redick expressed his frustration during his postgame press conference.
“Let us just start with Luka got tripped. That was a blatant trip. He doesn’t just fall on his own,” Redick said, referring to a play involving Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels.
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Upon review, McDaniels’ foot appeared to make contact with Doncic, causing the fall—even if unintentional. In context, Redick’s anger toward the officiating crew is understandable. While Redick acknowledged that missed calls weren’t the sole reason for the Lakers’ defeat, the controversies added yet another layer of drama to a pivotal night in the NBA playoffs.
