Lakers Host Timberwolves in Game 1 of Playoff Series Tonight

LOS ANGELES, California — The Los Angeles Lakers are set to host the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of their Western Conference playoff series on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. CT. Both teams have announced their injury reports ahead of the crucial game.

Rob Dillingham, the Timberwolves guard who was selected with the eighth pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has been ruled out due to an ankle injury. Dillingham has averaged 4.5 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists over 49 games this season.

In contrast, the Lakers will be missing forward Maxi Kleber, who is sidelined with a foot injury and has not yet made his debut for Los Angeles following a trade earlier this season. Lakers head coach J.J. Redick noted that Kleber is participating in shooting and conditioning drills, although there is no clear timeline for his return.

LeBron James, who has been dealing with a hip issue, is listed as probable for the game. Despite recent injury concerns, James confirmed on Friday that he will play. This season, he has averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists in 70 games.

The Timberwolves finished the regular season as the sixth seed in the Western Conference with a record of 49-33, while the Lakers secured the third seed at 50-32. This playoff matchup marks the first meeting between the two teams in the postseason since 2004.

Marc Davis will serve as the crew chief for tonight’s game, marking his continued presence in officiating playoff matchups involving the Timberwolves.