Minnesota (32-27) at LA Lakers (35-21)
- When: Feb 27 2025, 10:30 PM
- Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- TV: SportsNet LA
Game Preview
LA Lakers Favored by 6.5, Total Set at 228.5
Lakers Look to Stay Hot Against Timberwolves in Western Conference Clash
After a resilient comeback victory against one of the best teams in the West, the Minnesota Timberwolves head to Los Angeles to take on a red-hot Lakers squad on Thursday night. With both teams battling for playoff positioning, expect a highly competitive game, but injuries and depth could be the deciding factor.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Can They Overcome Key Injuries Again?
Minnesota is coming off an impressive 131-128 overtime road win against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday, rallying from a 25-point deficit in the third quarter. They were down 121-105 with under four minutes left in regulation but tied the franchise record for their biggest comeback, first set in 1996.
Key Performances & Injury Concerns
Jaden McDaniels was instrumental, dropping 27 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
Naz Reid added 22 points and 11 boards, giving the Timberwolves a much-needed boost in the absence of key players.
Anthony Edwards played through a calf strain, finishing with 17 points and 13 rebounds, but was limited in the fourth quarter and overtime.
Minnesota remains without Julius Randle (groin), Rudy Gobert (back), and Donte DiVincenzo (toe), which could be a major factor against the Lakers.
Despite being short-handed, Minnesota found a way to win by dominating at the free-throw line, going 8-for-8 in OT despite making just one field goal in extra time. Their defensive adjustments also helped slow down Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, proving they can still be dangerous even when undermanned.
Player Props to Watch:
Jaden McDaniels Over 17.5 Points – With several key players out, expect him to take on an increased scoring role.
Naz Reid Over 9.5 Rebounds – With Gobert out, he should see extended minutes and control the glass.
Los Angeles Lakers: Gaining Momentum with Luka & LeBron Leading the Way
The Lakers have been on fire, winning 13 of their last 16 games dating back to Jan. 21. Since acquiring Luka Doncic from Dallas, they are 3-2, but the new-look squad is still adjusting.
Doncic had his best performance as a Laker in a road win over the Denver Nuggets, dropping 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. He followed that up with a triple-double against his former team, finishing with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists in a 107-99 win over the Mavericks.
Despite his stat-stuffing performance, Doncic struggled from the field, going 6-of-17 overall and just 1-of-7 from three. Even so, he continues to elevate the Lakers’ offense and is adjusting to playing alongside LeBron James.
LeBron James Continues to Defy Father Time
At 40 years old, LeBron remains a dominant force, putting up 27 points and 12 rebounds against Dallas while providing strong defensive efforts. Lakers coach JJ Redick praised James’ defensive impact, calling him “an All-NBA level defender”.
Player Props to Watch:
Luka Doncic Over 8.5 Assists – The Lakers are still integrating him into the offense, and he’s taken on more playmaking duties.
LeBron James Over 24.5 Points – He has stepped up against top Western Conference teams, and with Minnesota’s injuries, expect him to dominate.
Final Betting Predictions
Spread Pick: Lakers -6.5 – With Minnesota still missing key players, LA has the advantage.
Total Pick: Over 228.5 – Both teams have high-powered offenses, and the pace should be quick.
With Minnesota struggling with injuries and the Lakers clicking at the right time, expect Los Angeles to take control and cover the spread at home.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
