Game Overview – Timberwolves Clinch Series 4–1

In Game 5 (April 30, 2025), the Minnesota Timberwolves closed out the series with a 103–96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on L.A.’s home court, sealing a 4‑1 series victory. The contest featured contrasting styles: Minnesota’s dominant frontcourt presence led by Rudy Gobert, and the Lakers’ guard-heavy lineup anchored by Luka Dončić and LeBron James, but with glaring size disadvantages.

Standout Performances

Rudy Gobert – A Double‑Double Masterclass

Gobert delivered a commanding playoff career-high with 27 points and 24 rebounds, controlling the paint on both ends. His defensive rim protection and second‑chance offense were crucial.

Anthony Edwards & Julius Randle – Key Contributors

Though Edwards had an off shooting night (likely influenced by illness), he finished with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, nearly securing a triple‑double .
Randle chipped in 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists, emerging as the Timberwolves’ most consistent secondary scorer.

Dončić & James – Falling Short

Luka recorded a solid 28 points, 9 assists, 7 rebounds but the Lakers’ perimeter shooting struggled overall.
LeBron contributed 22 points, grabbed 7 boards, and dished 6 assists. However, the team’s lack of size — especially against Gobert — undercut their interior game.

Supporting Cast – Contrasting Depth

L.A.’s Rui Hachimura added 23 points, offering momentary balance. Yet the Lakers’ bench was static, while Minnesota enjoyed timely contributions from Conley, DiVincenzo, and Alexander‑Walker.

Game Flow & Tactical Themes

• Paint supremacy: Gobert’s dominance inside contrasted sharply with the Lakers’ lack of a post presence .
• Shooting drought: Minnesota endured an abysmal 7-for-47 from three-point range, yet still secured the win thanks to physicality and toughness .
• Fourth‑quarter edge: Consistently outmuscling L.A. late in games was a hallmark for Minnesota throughout the series .

Comparative Player Stats – Game 5

These stats underscore Minnesota’s dominance inside, and L.A.’s reliance on perimeter production.

🧩 Tactical Breakdown

1. Size mismatch
   The Lakers’ midseason move sidelined Anthony Davis, leaving them vulnerable in the paint. This was exposed by Gobert’s breakout performance.
2. Bench impact
   Minnesota’s role players made timely contributions, while L.A.’s bench lacked consistency and offensive punch .
3. Coaching moves
   Strategic substitutions—such as putting Naz Reid in for Gobert in earlier games—helped Minnesota adapt dynamically.

Finals Thoughts

• Minnesota moves forward as they await the Warriors‑Rockets winner in the Western Semis.
• The outcome raises serious questions for Los Angeles: chemistry issues, inadequate size, and integrating two superstar guards mid‑season proved too much to overcome .
• For the Lakers, it’s back to the offseason drawing board — with a focus on building depth and balance around Dončić and James.

In summary, Game 5 (and the series overall) underscored the old adage: you can’t out-guard size. While Dončić and James delivered strong performances, Minnesota’s interior dominance—anchored by Gobert and cohesive team play provided the decisive edge.

FAQ – Timberwolves vs. Lakers Playoff Matchup

1. Who won the Game 5 matchup between the Timberwolves and Lakers?

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 103–96 in Game 5, clinching the series 4–1 and advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals.

2. Who was the top performer in Game 5?

Rudy Gobert was the standout player, recording a dominant 27 points and 24 rebounds, showcasing elite defense and rebounding that tilted the game in Minnesota’s favor.

3. How did Luka Dončić and LeBron James perform?

• Luka Dončić: Scored 28 points, with 7 rebounds and 9 assists.
• LeBron James: Added 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists.
  Despite their efforts, the Lakers couldn’t overcome their disadvantages in size and rebounding.

4. What were the key stats for the Timberwolves’ win?

• Rebounding edge, led by Gobert.
• Defensive presence in the paint, limiting Lakers’ interior scoring.
• Timely contributions from role players like Julius Randle (23 points) and Anthony Edwards (near triple-double).

5. Why did the Lakers struggle in this series?

The Lakers lacked size and interior defense after losing Anthony Davis to injury. Their guard-heavy rotation couldn’t contain Minnesota’s frontcourt, especially Gobert. The bench also failed to provide consistent scoring support.

6. What happens next for the Timberwolves?

Minnesota advances to the Western Conference Semifinals, where they await the winner of the Warriors vs. Rockets series.

7. Will the Lakers make offseason changes?

Most likely. After a disappointing early exit, the front office is expected to re-evaluate the roster, particularly their lack of size, bench depth, and the challenge of integrating two ball-dominant stars (Dončić and LeBron).

8. Where can I find the full box score and highlights?

You can view detailed stats and play-by-play summaries here:

• NBA.com Box Score
• ESPN Box Score
• CBS Sports Gametracker