The Minnesota Timberwolves have a 2-1 series lead over the Los Angeles Lakers, thanks to their superior size, depth, defense, and team chemistry. Health has been a significant advantage for the Timberwolves, as they have overcome previous injuries to key players, while the Lakers and other playoff teams struggle with injuries. Notably, the Lakers' Luka Doncic faced a stomach illness, impacting his performance, while LeBron James displayed resilience with a record-setting game. In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics, despite Jayson Tatum's return, face challenges with injuries to other key players, affecting their series against Orlando. The Milwaukee Bucks need more from Damian Lillard, who is recovering from an injury, to overcome the Indiana Pacers in their playoff series.

The Timberwolves, boasting size, depth, and strong defensive capabilities, lead their first-round playoff series against the Lakers 2-1, benefiting from returning to full health after injuries sidelined key players earlier in the season.

Health is a pivotal factor in the playoffs, as teams like the Lakers struggle with player ailments such as Luka Doncic's stomach illness, which limited his performance to 17 points, while LeBron James remains a formidable force despite recent injuries.

In the Eastern Conference, the Celtics' playoff run is hindered by injuries to players like Jrue Holiday and Jaylen Brown, even as Jayson Tatum makes his return, contributing to their loss in Game 3 against Orlando.

The Detroit Pistons face a tough challenge against the New York Knicks, trailing 2-1 in the series, with a poor home playoff game record and needing standout performances from Cade Cunningham and his teammates to succeed.

Milwaukee Bucks' success against the Indiana Pacers hinges on the performance of Damian Lillard, who is attempting a comeback from deep vein thrombosis, with the team requiring his scoring prowess to advance in the playoffs.