The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 117–95 in the Timberwolves vs Lakers match player stats showdown that opened the 2025 NBA Western Conference First Round. Played at Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, April 19, tip-off was at 8:30 PM ET on ABC in front of a sold-out crowd of 19,067. Minnesota set a franchise playoff record with 21 three-pointers and dominated three of four quarters to take a commanding 1–0 series lead.
This breakdown is the complete box score, individual player breakdown, and tactical analysis from Game 1.
Timberwolves vs Lakers Final Score and Team Stats — April 19, 2025
Timberwolves vs Lakers Score by Quarter
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
| Timberwolves | 27 | 38 | 29 | 23 | 117 |
| Lakers | 30 | 20 | 24 | 21 | 95 |
Los Angeles carried a 14-point lead through the first quarter behind a blistering 16-point opening from Luka Doncic. Minnesota then flipped the entire game with a 38–20 second quarter, completing the first of three separate 16–4 scoring runs across the night. The Wolves never looked back.
Timberwolves vs Lakers Box Score — Key Team Metrics
| Category | Timberwolves | Lakers |
| Total Points | 117 | 95 |
| 3-Pointers Made | 21 (record) | Below avg |
| 3-Point Attempts | 42 | — |
| Largest Lead (LAL) | 14 pts (Q1) | — |
| Scoring Runs | Three 16–4 | None |
| Game Result | Win | Loss |
Minnesota’s offensive efficiency told the real story. Shooting 50% from beyond the arc on 42 attempts, the Wolves generated a franchise playoff record that exposed critical gaps in the Lakers’ perimeter coverage.
Timberwolves vs Lakers Match Player Stats — Complete Player Performance
Minnesota Timberwolves Player Stats — Game 1
| Player | Position | PTS | REB | AST | 3 PM | FG% |
| Jaden McDaniels | SF | 25 | 5 | 2 | 4 | 52% |
| Naz Reid | C/F | 23 | 6 | 1 | 6 | 58% |
| Anthony Edwards | SG | 22 | 8 | 9 | 4 | 48% |
| Julius Randle | PF | 14 | 7 | 3 | 4 | 47% |
| Rudy Gobert | C | 8 | 12 | 1 | 0 | 67% |
| Mike Conley | PG | 6 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 40% |
Jaden McDaniels — 25 Points (Game-High)
McDaniels was the standout performer of the night, leading all scorers with 25 points. His length and perimeter shooting created consistent matchup problems for Lakers defenders across all four quarters. He stretched the floor and allowed the Wolves’ pick-and-roll actions to function at maximum efficiency.
Naz Reid — 23 Points, 6 Three-Pointers
Coming off the bench, Reid delivered a playoff statement performance. His six three-pointers were a major driver of Minnesota’s record-breaking shooting night. In a game where the Lakers expected the Wolves’ starting unit to carry the load, Reid’s scoring punch from the second unit gave Los Angeles no chance to recover between starters’ rotations.
Anthony Edwards — 22 Points, 9 Assists, 8 rebounds
Anthony Edwards did not lead the team in scoring — and that was the point. Ant played the role of orchestrator, generating open looks for teammates with nine assists while still threatening off the dribble. His eight rebounds added to the Wolves’ dominance on the glass.
His evolution from pure scorer to complete playmaker was the most significant storyline of the game. After the final whistle, Edwards credited his teammates directly: “I got a great group of guys… it just took a minute for us to figure each other out, and I feel like now we just go.”
Julius Randle — 4 Three-Pointers
Randle’s ability to knock down four shots from deep was a force multiplier for Minnesota’s offense. Defenders who collapsed on Edwards or McDaniels paid a steep price, and Randle punished every closeout. His floor spacing was central to opening the paint for driving lanes throughout the game.
Rudy Gobert — Defensive Anchor
Gobert’s impact on this game was felt most in what Los Angeles could not do. His rim protection altered Anthony Davis’s rhythm at the basket and denied the Lakers their preferred paint-scoring opportunities. The Wolves ranked in the top 10 in opponent three-point percentage during the regular season, and their disciplined switching defense held up fully in this playoff opener.
Mike Conley — Veteran Control
Conley’s role was execution-focused — managing pace, maintaining a clean assist-to-turnover ratio, and keeping ball movement flowing through Minnesota’s spacing scheme. His playoff experience steadied the offense during the few moments the Lakers threatened to cut into the deficit.
Los Angeles Lakers Player Stats — Game 1
| Player | Position | PTS | REB | AST | 3 PM | FG% |
| Luka Doncic | PG/SF | 37 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 56% |
| LeBron James | SF/PF | 19 | 6 | 5 | 1 | 44% |
| Anthony Davis | C/PF | 15 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 50% |
| Austin Reaves | SG | 8 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 36% |
| Rui Hachimura | SF/PF | 7 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 38% |
| Gabe Vincent | PG | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 33% |
Luka Doncic — 37 Points
Doncic delivered one of the most individually brilliant yet team-losing performances of this playoff round. He finished with 37 points on 10-of-18 field goals, 4-of-9 from three, and 7-of-8 from the free throw line — his 11th-highest scoring output in any playoff game of his career.
His 16-point first quarter energized the home crowd and had Los Angeles looking like the more dangerous team. But as Doncic acknowledged after the game, the execution collapsed: “I think the first quarter we played the way we play… and then we just kind of let go of the rope. We’ve got to be way more physical.”
Despite accumulating 31 points through three quarters, the game was effectively decided by then. One player cannot stop 21 three-pointers.
LeBron James — 19 Points
In his 18th NBA postseason, LeBron contributed 19 points but was unable to replicate his regular-season command over the tempo of a game. Minnesota’s defensive rotations consistently limited his ability to create for others in late-clock situations. After the loss, he acknowledged the adjustment required: “This Minnesota team, they’re going to be physical. That’s what they bring to the table. It took us one game to understand that.”
Anthony Davis — Interior Presence
Davis worked hard in the post and on the boards, but Gobert’s positioning made clean looks at the rim scarce. Without consistent paint scoring, the Lakers were forced into a perimeter-heavy game, which played directly into Minnesota’s defensive strengths. The Wolves allowed the sixth-fewest three-pointers per 100 possessions during the regular season, and those habits carried over completely into the playoffs.
Austin Reaves and the Supporting Cast
Reaves and the remaining rotation — Rui Hachimura, Taurean Prince, and Gabe Vincent — were unable to find a consistent rhythm from outside. Minnesota’s switching coverage and disciplined closeouts neutralized the Lakers’ role players at the exact moments they were needed most. Without contributions from the supporting cast, all pressure fell back on Doncic and Davis, which is exactly where the Wolves wanted it.
Where Was the Timberwolves vs Lakers Game Played? Venue, Crowd, and Conditions
The game was played at Crypto.com Arena, located at 1111 S. Figueroa Street in Downtown Los Angeles, operated by AEG (Anschutz Entertainment Group). The arena — still widely known as Staples Center among longtime fans — holds 19,067 for NBA games and was at full playoff capacity on April 19.
| Detail | Information |
| Arena | Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) |
| Address | 1111 S. Figueroa Street, Downtown Los Angeles |
| Operator | AEG (Anschutz Entertainment Group) |
| NBA Capacity | 19,067 |
| Attendance | Sold out — 19,067 |
| Tip-Off | 8:30 PM ET / 5:30 PM PT |
| Broadcast | ABC |
| Outdoor Temperature | High 70°F / Low 55°F |
| Sky Conditions | Clear, light winds, 0% rain |
The outdoor conditions in Los Angeles that evening were ideal for fans arriving at L.A. LIVE before tip-off. Temperatures reached approximately 70°F during the afternoon, dropping to around 55°F by game time, with clear skies and light winds. No rain, no weather disruptions — a warm spring night in Southern California that the home crowd hoped would fuel the Lakers to a big Game 1 win.
Doncic’s 16-point first quarter did exactly that, sending the arena into full noise. But when Minnesota’s second quarter erupted with a 38–20 scoring run, the building went quiet — and the Wolves rode that momentum for the remaining three quarters without looking back.
Why Did the Timberwolves Beat the Lakers in Game 1?
The Wolves won this game because of the system, not just individual talent.
Top Scorers — Timberwolves vs Lakers Combined
| Rank | Player | Team | PTS | 3 PM |
| 1 | Luka Doncic | LAL | 37 | 4 |
| 2 | Jaden McDaniels | MIN | 25 | 4 |
| 3 | Naz Reid | MIN | 23 | 6 |
| 4 | Anthony Edwards | MIN | 22 | 4 |
| 5 | LeBron James | LAL | 19 | 1 |
| 6 | Anthony Davis | LAL | 15 | 0 |
| 7 | Julius Randle | MIN | 14 | 4 |
Shooting Efficiency & Paint Points Comparison
| Category | Timberwolves | Lakers |
| 3-Pointers Made | 21 | 9 |
| 3-Point Attempts | 42 | 28 |
| 3PT% | 50% | 32% |
| Paint Points | 38 | 32 |
| Fast Break Points | 18 | 8 |
| Bench Points | 30 | 14 |
| Turnovers | 8 | 14 |
| Points Off Turnovers | 18 | 10 |
Head coach Chris Finch deployed a five-out spacing scheme that pulled every Lakers defender to the perimeter, creating driving lanes for Edwards and open looks for shooters behind him. With Randle, McDaniels, and Reid all capable of hitting shots from beyond the arc, the Lakers had no single defensive answer that worked across the entire rotation.
Minnesota also won the turnover battle convincingly. Fewer giveaways meant fewer transition opportunities for Los Angeles. The Wolves controlled possession efficiently enough to prevent the up-tempo pace that would have benefited Doncic’s isolation scoring in the open court.
The three separate 16–4 scoring runs — arriving in Q2, Q3, and Q4 — were not accidental. They reflected real-time adjustment decisions made by Finch’s staff, forcing first-year head coach JJ Redick into reactive moves his team could not execute under playoff pressure.
Chris Finch vs JJ Redick — Coaching Decisions That Decided the Game
Chris Finch built a game plan that exploited the Lakers’ inability to defend multiple perimeter threats simultaneously. By staggering Naz Reid’s bench minutes strategically, Finch ensured Minnesota maintained offensive pressure even during Edwards’ rest periods.
Finch kept his post-game message measured: “It means Game 1. We know it’s going to be a long series… I know we can do better.”
JJ Redick, navigating his first career playoff run as a head coach, leaned heavily on Doncic’s individual brilliance. That approach worked for exactly one quarter. Once the Wolves committed to making every other Lakers player beat them, Los Angeles had no backup plan. Redick’s inability to find a defensive answer for Minnesota’s perimeter movement was the defining tactical failure of the game.
Timberwolves vs Lakers 2025 Playoff Series — What Happens After Game 1?
The Timberwolves entered this series as the sixth seed, having won 18 of their last 22 regular-season games. That run built the best form in the Western Conference heading into the postseason. The Lakers were the third seed, with Doncic leading a roster still developing its playoff identity around his arrival in Los Angeles.
The two teams split their regular-season series 2–2, with Doncic playing in only one of those four meetings. The 2025 playoffs delivered the first full competitive look at what each roster could do under true postseason pressure.
The remaining series schedule from Game 1:
| Game | Date | Location | Result |
| Game 1 | April 19 | Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles | MIN wins 117–95 |
| Game 2 | April 22 | Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles | TBD (TNT) |
| Game 3 | April 25 | Target Center, Minneapolis | TBD |
| Game 4 | April 27 | Target Center, Minneapolis | TBD |
| Game 5 | April 29 | Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles | If necessary |
| Game 6 | May 1 | Target Center, Minneapolis | If necessary |
| Game 7 | May 3 | Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles | If necessary |
Games 1 and 2 at Crypto.com Arena were the Lakers’ best opportunity to establish home-court advantage before the series shifted to Minnesota. After Game 1, that advantage is gone.
Conclusion
Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Western Conference First Round delivered a clear message: the Minnesota Timberwolves are built for playoff basketball. Their franchise-record 21 three-pointers, disciplined team defense against Doncic’s individually historic effort, and Anthony Edwards’ growth into a complete two-way player all point to a team ready for a deep postseason run.
For the Lakers, Doncic’s 37 points proved his individual ceiling is elite. But one player cannot solve a defensive breakdown when five Timberwolves shooters are making half their long-range attempts. JJ Redick and Los Angeles need real answers before Game 2 at Crypto.com Arena on April 22.
The series is far from over — but Minnesota served notice in Game 1 that they intend to be the last team standing in the West.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Timberwolves vs Lakers on April 19, 2025?
Minnesota won 117–95. The Timberwolves dominated three of four quarters after trailing early in Q1.
Who led the Timberwolves in scoring vs the Lakers?
Jaden McDaniels led Minnesota with 25 points. Naz Reid added 23 off the bench, and Anthony Edwards posted 22 points with 9 assists and 8 rebounds.
What did Luka Doncic score in Game 1?
Doncic scored 37 points on 10-of-18 shooting, including 4-of-9 from three-point range. It was the 11th-highest playoff scoring output of his career — and the Lakers still lost by 22.
How many three-pointers did the Timberwolves make?
Minnesota made 21 three-pointers on 42 attempts — a franchise playoff record.
Where was the game played, and how many people attended?
The game was held at Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles. The NBA capacity is 19,067, and the playoff opener was a complete sellout.
What were Anthony Edwards’ stats against the Lakers?
Edwards recorded 22 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds, playing more as a playmaker than a primary scorer.
What was LeBron James’ stat line in Game 1?
LeBron scored 19 points in his 18th NBA postseason appearance. Minnesota’s defensive rotations limited his ability to impact the game as a creator.
What was the weather like on game night in Los Angeles?
Conditions were clear with a daytime high around 70°F and an evening low near 55°F — a calm, dry spring night ideal for fans at L.A. LIVE before tip-off.
Can the Lakers come back after losing Game 1 by 22?
Teams recover from 0–1 deficits regularly in a best-of-seven format, but the margin of defeat and Minnesota’s current form — 18 wins in their last 22 games — make Los Angeles a clear underdog heading into Game 2.
