Game 4 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers left fans breathless. Despite holding a comfortable lead in the final quarter, the Lakers failed to maintain control and fell 116-113, leaving the Timberwolves just one step away from advancing in the series. With the score now 3-1 in favor of Minnesota, the outlook becomes more complicated for the Los Angeles Lakers, who will be looking to cling to their last chance in Game 5.
Timberwolves Rebound And Punish Lakers' Mistakes
Minnesota showed impressive responsiveness down the stretch. Although they were down by 12 points at the end of the third quarter, they never gave up. Led by Anthony Edwards, who had a brilliant night with 43 points, the Timberwolves were able to take advantage of every Lakers' mistake to turn the score around.
One of the most defining moments came in the final 40 seconds. Jaden McDaniels hit a three-point play that gave them the lead. Then, he stole an entry pass from LeBron James that virtually sealed the win for his team. That combination of good execution and defensive pressure was key for Minnesota to prevail in the closing minutes.
In addition to the strong contributions from Edwards and McDaniels, Julius Randle also played an important role, scoring 25 points. Naz Reid was another of the silent heroes, with two crucial three-pointers in the last quarter that kept the Timberwolves in the fight. Every intervention in those final minutes weighed on the outcome, showing a team that knew how to execute better in moments of maximum pressure.
Lakers Dominate But Can't Close Out Game
The Lakers appeared to be in control of the game after a flurry of 11 consecutive points early in the third quarter. Luka Dončić, despite dealing with stomach discomfort, shined as the team's leading scorer with 38 points, including five three-pointers. LeBron James was no slouch either with 27 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, three steals and three blocks in another performance where he made it clear that he continues to be the engine of his team.
However, as the minutes went by, mistakes accumulated. Turnovers at key moments, lack of effectiveness in defense and costly lapses of concentration ended up taking their toll. Rui Hachimura contributed 23 points and Austin Reaves, after a discreet first half, added 17 in the second half, but it was not enough to stop Minnesota's final onslaught.
Reaves' missed shot in the corner, which could have tied the game, symbolized the Lakers' night: close, but without the necessary precision in the important moments. Now, they will have to correct quickly if they want to extend the series and avoid an early elimination.
Anthony Edwards And The Drive Of A Determined Timberwolves
The name of the night was Anthony Edwards. With a dazzling performance, he led the Timberwolves' offense at all times. His 43 points were not only a demonstration of talent, but also of personality to take control when they needed it most.
Edwards was also smart in the closing minutes. He drew a foul from James on a penetration to the hoop in the closing seconds and hit both free throws, increasing the pressure on a Lakers team that was already fighting the clock and the deficit. The maturity he showed in these playoffs is a clear sign of the growth he has had as a key player in Minnesota.
The rest of the team also responded when needed. McDaniels, with his 16 points and 11 rebounds, not only helped on the scoreboard but also contained the Lakers' attackers with his defense. Naz Reid contributed vital points from long distance and Randle kept the offensive threat constant throughout the game.
Minnesota is now one win away from advancing, thanks to its collective strength and the explosiveness of its young star. In a sport where details make the difference, the Timberwolves knew how to make the right plays at the moments that counted the most.
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What's Next for Both Teams
Game 5 will be decisive for the Lakers, who must win to stay alive in the playoffs. The series moves back to Los Angeles, where LeBron James' team will try to make its home court advantage count to force a Game 6. They will have to correct the closing mistakes and find a way to contain Edwards if they want to have real chances.
Minnesota, on the other hand, arrives with all the confidence on their side. With the series 3-1, they know they are very close to clinching their qualification, but they also understand that they cannot relax. The challenge will be to maintain the intensity and continue to execute with the same precision they showed in the critical moments of Game 4.
Wednesday promises to be a vibrant night, with the Lakers fighting for their survival and the Timberwolves looking to close out a series that has seen them grow in character and ambition. Fans can expect an emotionally charged game, where every possession will be vital in defining the fate of the playoffs. Can Minnesota seal the series or will the Lakers force one more battle? We will know soon enough.
