Timberwolves Seek Redemption After Lakers Bounce Back in Game 2

LOS ANGELES — The Minnesota Timberwolves regrouped on Saturday ahead of Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers. After dominating in Game 1, Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards emphasized the need for his team to stay focused and not settle for a split.

“We’re good enough to take two games,” Edwards said. “Let’s be ready to play tomorrow. They’re gonna be ready, so we gotta be ready.” The Timberwolves entered Game 2 with a renewed sense of urgency, aware that the Lakers, led by LeBron James and Luka Dončić, would respond aggressively after their Game 1 loss.

However, the Timberwolves struggled to match the Lakers’ intensity. Los Angeles won Game 2, 94-85, tying the series 1-1. The Lakers, recalling their disappointing Game 1, raised their defensive game significantly, forcing Minnesota into a slower and less effective offensive rhythm.

Despite holding the Lakers to a mere 70 points throughout the latter three quarters of Game 1, Minnesota’s offense faltered this time around. The Timberwolves ended the first quarter down 34-15 and shot just 28% from the field in that period.

Timberwolves point guard Mike Conley acknowledged the team’s lack of aggression in contrast to the Lakers’ defensive pressure. “We just didn’t match it,” he said after the game. “We didn’t come with the same level of aggression that we had in the first game.”

Edwards himself had a shaky performance, scoring 25 points but missing eight of 10 attempts from beyond the arc. He noted how the Lakers’ defensive adjustments disrupted his rhythm, creating challenges in finding his shots.

Meanwhile, Lakers players James and Dončić delivered vital performances, combining for significant contributions. Dončić recorded 31 points and nine assists, enhancing his game after a subdued showing in Game 1.

Timberwolves coach Chris Finch expressed disappointment in his team’s scoring approach. “We turned down some open shots… we just didn’t make the right play when it was in front of us,” Finch explained.

The Mavericks will need to bounce back quickly as the series shifts to their home court for Games 3 and 4, set for Friday and Sunday. Wolves players, including Edwards, recognized the need to rethink their strategy against the increasingly physical play of the Lakers.

Edwards asserted, “It’s just about us. All season long, it’s been about us,” suggesting that the Timberwolves must rely on their own strengths and communication to reclaim control in the series.