Lakers Eliminated from NBA Playoffs After Game 5 Loss to Timberwolves
The Los Angeles Team were officially eliminated from the 2025 NBA Playoffs after a 103-96 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the first-round series. The Timberwolves won the series 4-1, ending the Lakers’ hopes of a deep playoff run and sending them into an offseason filled with major questions.
Gobert Dominates as Timberwolves Outplay Lakers
From the opening whistle, the Timberwolves imposed their will physically and strategically. Rudy Gobert had a monster game, finishing with 27 points and 24 rebounds. His performance in the paint helped Minnesota out-rebound the Lakers 65-48 and outscore them 56-40 in the interior.
The Lakers, facing elimination, leaned heavily on superstars Luka Dončić and LeBron James. Dončić, who played through a back injury, led the team with 28 points and 9 assists. James added 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. Despite their efforts, the team struggled to keep pace.
Lakers Struggle in the Fourth Quarter
The Lakers made a push, briefly taking the lead late in the third quarter after trailing by 14 points. But fatigue and Minnesota’s relentless defense caused their offense to collapse in the fourth, scoring only 16 points.
The supporting cast underperformed. Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith combined for only 19 points. The Lakers also shot a poor 29% from three-point range and committed multiple turnovers during key possessions. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards and Mike Conley made clutch plays for the Timberwolves.
Unwanted History
This elimination marks the first time in franchise history that the Lakers have lost a first-round playoff series as a number three seed or higher. Head coach JJ Redick, in his postseason debut, saw his team’s weaknesses exposed—particularly the lack of depth and inside presence.
Despite having two elite stars, the team’s bench failed to contribute consistently. Transition defense, rebounding, and three-point shooting were all liabilities throughout the series.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The offseason looms large for the Lakers. At 40 years old, LeBron James faces increasing speculation about his potential retirement or role in the future. Meanwhile, Luka Dončić is under contract, but he may demand assurances that the Lakers are building a true title contender.
Front-office executives must address the glaring need for a starting-caliber center, reliable bench scoring, and defensive versatility. Trade rumors involving Austin Reaves and draft picks are already surfacing as fans brace for more change.
🧩 Explore more: The Athletic – Lakers Offseason Trade Scenarios
A Tough Pill for Fans
For fans of the Lakers, this loss is both frustrating and symbolic of deeper issues within the team’s construction. What started as a season of high expectations now ends with more questions than answers.
As the Timberwolves move forward to the Western Conference semifinals, the Lakers must regroup, re-evaluate, and prepare for a critical offseason that will determine the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.
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