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The Minnesota Timberwolves and LA Lakers squared off in a rematch of last season's first-round playoff battle at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Friday. The Timberwolves eliminated the Lakers in the playoffs last season by winning the series 4-1. Hence, the game had a bit of extra spice for a regular-season encounter.
Minnesota stuck with its same starting lineup that played in the season opener against the Portland Trail Blazers. Anthony Edwards led the charge, with Donte DiVincenzo, Jaden McDaniels, Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle rounding out the starting five. Meanwhile, the Lakers' starting lineup comprised Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent and Deandre Ayton.
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The action was reminiscent of what transpired during the playoff series between the two teams last season. The Wolves' size, pace and athletic ability proved too much for the Lakers once again.
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The Lakers' defensive execution was abysmal in the first quarter and they were late on closeout on several plays. The Timberwolves shot lights out from deep and knocked down five of their seven 3-pointers to take a 26-17 lead.
Luka Doncic dragged the Lakers back with a superhuman performance. The Slovenian superstar dropped 23 points in the opening period and made eight field goals when no other Lakers player made more than two. Despite Luka's magical display, the Lakers trailed 40-36 after the first quarter.
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Edited by Atishay Jain
English (US)