The Los Angeles Lakers entered the 2025 playoffs with championship aspirations, however their Sport 1 efficiency towards the Minnesota Timberwolves rapidly dampened that optimism.
The purple and gold seemed overmatched on their dwelling court docket, struggling a humiliating 117-95 defeat that raised critical questions on their playoff readiness.
The blowout loss prompted an uncharacteristically pointed response from Lakers legend Magic Johnson, who usually affords extra measured commentary about his former staff.
This time, nevertheless, the Corridor of Famer didn’t mince phrases when addressing what he noticed as elementary issues.
“Coach JJ Redick did an awesome job all season however he didn’t do job for Sport 1. The Lakers stood round on offense, performed an excessive amount of one-on-one basketball, and he didn’t make any vital changes,” Johnson wrote on X.
Coach JJ Redick did an awesome job all season however he didn’t do job for Sport 1. The Lakers stood round on offense, performed an excessive amount of one-on-one basketball, and he didn’t make any vital changes.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) April 20, 2025
Magic’s frustration mirrored what Lakers followers witnessed throughout the disappointing collapse.
Los Angeles truly began robust, constructing a promising 28-21 lead after the primary quarter. However that benefit rapidly evaporated as Minnesota seized management and by no means seemed again.
The Timberwolves’ scorching taking pictures and balanced assault overwhelmed the Lakers, who have been outscored by a staggering 96-67 margin over the ultimate three quarters.
This end result was notably stunning contemplating the Lakers entered because the No. 3 seed with each LeBron James and Luka Dončić obtainable and the advantage of enjoying at dwelling.
The shocking defeat has dramatically shifted the collection dynamics.
Sport 2 has abruptly grow to be a must-win state of affairs for Los Angeles, as falling into an 0-2 gap earlier than heading to Minnesota would put their playoff hopes in critical jeopardy.
The stress now falls squarely on rookie head coach Redick to make the required tactical changes whereas his stars should ship the form of efficiency anticipated from a championship contender.
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