The Minnesota Timberwolves eliminated the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the NBA playoffs with a 103-96 victory, wrapping up a 4-1 series win. Rudy Gobert was instrumental, delivering a standout performance with 27 points and 24 rebounds, dominating the paint against a smaller Lakers lineup. Despite efforts from LeBron James and Luka Doncic, who scored 22 and 28 points respectively, the Lakers could not overcome the depth and size of the Timberwolves in the decisive fourth quarter. The loss marks an early playoff exit for Los Angeles and raises questions about the future, including the potential retirement of the 40-year-old James. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, led by Gobert and Julius Randle, are set to advance to the second round, awaiting the winner of the Warriors vs. Rockets series, with confidence in making another deep playoff run.

Rudy Gobert's performance was pivotal in Minnesota's victory, scoring 27 points and grabbing 24 rebounds, effectively exploiting the Lakers' smaller lineup with offensive rebounds and efficient scoring in the paint.

Despite the Lakers' star power, including LeBron James and Luka Doncic, their efforts fell short in the fourth quarter as they could not match the Timberwolves' depth and physical presence.

The Timberwolves struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 14.9% from three-point range, but compensated with strong inside play and contributions from Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards.

Los Angeles faced an early playoff exit, prompting speculation about the offseason, especially concerning LeBron James' potential retirement and the need to build a stronger supporting cast around Luka Doncic.

The Lakers' small-ball strategy was exposed by Minnesota's size, with Gobert and Randle taking advantage of their physical presence, while the Lakers struggled to maintain energy and defensive intensity.

The Timberwolves, having reached the conference finals the previous year, are optimistic about another deep playoff run, showcasing a balanced team effort even when Anthony Edwards had an off night.

Throughout the game, live updates highlighted key plays and moments, emphasizing the Timberwolves' resilience and ability to secure victory despite missing numerous three-point attempts.

Just months after acquiring Luka Doncic, the Lakers are on the brink of a first-round exit. 

The sixth-seeded Timberwolves own a 3-1 series lead over LeBron James and company coming into Wednesday night, with Anthony Edwards seeking to grow the list of stars he's beaten in the playoffs throughout his young career coming off a 43-point performance in Game 4. 

So far in the series, some of the Lakers' best efforts have gone for naught. Doncic has scored over 30 points in three of the four games, while James has at least 20 points in three of the four. But Los Angeles has only been able to pull out a Game 2 victory in which it held Minnesota to 85 points. In the two matchups since, the Timberwolves' scoring depth has been too much for a Lakers team that's heavily relying on its starters.

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Edwards has been the focal point of the Timberwolves' success. His huge Game 4 performance was the headliner, but the young guard has also displayed his all-around improvements, totaling 23 assists, 31 rebounds, and just six turnovers in the series so far. Beyond Edwards, Julius Randle (22.5 points per game), Jaden McDaniels (19.8 points per game), and Naz Reid (13.8 points per game) have all stepped their games up to the playoff stage, as well.

If Wednesday's matchup results in a Lakers loss, the team would enter a fascinating offseason with a 40-year-old James and prime Doncic on the roster — but first, the two superstars will seek to extend their season another day. Meanwhile, one more win would send Edwards and the Timberwolves to the second round for the second consecutive season.

The Sporting News is tracking live updates and highlights as the Timberwolves take on the Lakers in Game 5 of the teams' first-round series. Follow along with the action below.

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Lakers vs. Timberwolves live score

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Lakers vs. Timberwolves highlights from Game 5 of 2025 NBA playoffs

(All times ET)

End of third quarter: Timberwolves 81, Lakers 80

12:09 a.m. — With 12 minutes remaining, the Timberwolves have the slight advantage thanks to another two points from Gobert, who's got 24 points and 16 rebounds. The center, usually known for his defense, has picked up the slack in the paint for Edwards, who is 4-15 from the floor and 0-8 from deep.

The Lakers have their most momentum in ages though, with a half-injured Doncic up to 25 points, plus James (17) and Hachimura (18) both playing supporting roles. The Lakers will either be eliminated or live to see another day over the next quarter.

12:07 a.m. — Rudy Gobert is just two points away from tying his playoff career high, currently at 22 points.

RUUUUUUUUUUU pic.twitter.com/3skK6Yzn54

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 1, 2025

12:03 a.m. — The Lakers lead! Doncic has led the charge on a comeback effort, finally breaking through with a 15-7 run to take the lead. Dorian Finney-Smith's 3-pointer gives his team the advantage, but Doncic is now up to 24 points and seven assists. 

Crypto.com Arena has come alive, and this game is neck-and-neck.

FINNEY-SMITH FOR THE LEAD ‼️

Lakers first lead of the night in the must-win Game 5 on TNT 💥 pic.twitter.com/8PPWQrGkGh

— NBA (@NBA) May 1, 2025

12:02 a.m. — Doncic's free throws cut the Minnesota lead to 73-70. He has 10 made free-throws tonight and is starting to heat up, despite the nagging back issue.

11:58 p.m. — Rudy Gobert is up to 20 points (!) with a ferocious put-back slam. He's added in 11 rebounds so far.

ON.
HIS.
HEAD. pic.twitter.com/XD98nFp5uq

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 1, 2025

11:56 p.m. — Minnesota continues owning the paint, preventing the Lakers from taking a lead. Edwards got a tough double-clutch shot to go to make it a seven-point lead:

that's so tough Æ. pic.twitter.com/iiid43FXnp

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 1, 2025

11:49 p.m. — Yet again, the Lakers are on a run and within striking range. Doncic's first 3-pointer and a James driving bucket makes it a five-point deficit for Los Angeles. The Lakers still have not led in this game, though.

Luka LACES one from outside 💦 pic.twitter.com/C8SfrgTJAh

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 1, 2025

11:40 p.m. — The Timberwolves are ice cold to start the third quarter, missing three consecutive 3-pointers, including an airball from Edwards. The Lakers have some life behind four points from James.

LeBron cuts baseline and FLUSHES 😤

📺 MIN (3-1) LAL | 3Q on TNT pic.twitter.com/4QCctxBfZK

— NBA (@NBA) May 1, 2025

11:39 p.m. — As the second half begins, Luka Doncic is back on the floor for the Lakers. 

11:25 p.m. — Gobert leads the Timberwolves with his 15 points, with Anthony Edwards (10) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (10) not far behind. For the Lakers, Doncic has 12 points thanks to his eight free-throws, while James (10 points) and Hachimura (10 points) are hanging around.

Halftime: Timberwolves 59, Lakers 49

11:23 p.m. — At the break, Los Angeles trails by 10, with crypto.com Arena virtually silent. Minnesota's length and relentless rebounding has just been too much for the Lakers, who have also had a poor shooting game from Doncic so far.

Of further concern for the Lakers is Doncic's health, as he gingerly walked to the locker room after the foul from Gobert.

11:19 p.m. — A hard foul, but not a flagrant, from Gobert sends Doncic to the free-throw line. He grabs at his back a bit after the foul, shoots the free throws, then slowly walks to the locker room as halftime nears. Not a good sign for the Lakers, who need all the help they can.

Luka is headed back to the locker room after this play —

Hope he is OK. 🙏

pic.twitter.com/Jnk1zq8Cgm

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 1, 2025

11:15 p.m. — Here's your nightly reminder: LeBron James is 40 and doing stuff like this.

LeBron with a two-handed FLUSH and the point to Kyrie Irving sitting courtside 😤 pic.twitter.com/I8BeuMJovI

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 1, 2025

11:09 p.m. — It's back to a double-digit lead for Minnesota. Anthony Edwards is getting to the line often, and Gobert remains efficient around the rim. For every Lakers run, the Timberwolves have had an answer.

11:07 p.m. — Luka Doncic airballed a wide-open transition 3-pointer and is now 1-6 from the floor.

Luka with the WIDE-OPEN AIRBALL! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/CHWK3Md43c

— NBA Strife ツ (@strifeomg) May 1, 2025

11:05 p.m. — Los Angeles is doing everything it can to make up the difference in total shots from 10 Timberwolves offensive rebounds. The Lakers are within three as the second quarter rolls on.

11:00 p.m. — Heading into a timeout with around seven minutes remaining in the first half, Minnesota leads 44-37. The Lakers are making it a point to double Anthony Edwards, who has just six points, but the rest of the Timberwolves are carrying the load. 

Rui Hachimura is up to a team-high 10 points for the Lakers. 

10:55 p.m. — Gobert is up to 11 points, taking full advantage of the Lakers' small units. He's 5-5 from the floor.

11 QUICK POINTS FOR RU. pic.twitter.com/eHvEmHhT5W

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 1, 2025

10:53 p.m. — Here come the Lakers. They open the second quarter on a 7-1 run to make it a three-point deficit, with James' eight points leading the charge. 

LeBron hanging, finishing AND going to the line!

14-3 Lakers run on TNT 🔥 pic.twitter.com/yq1d9JeDLQ

— NBA (@NBA) May 1, 2025

Among those in early foul trouble: Luka Doncic (2), Austin Reaves (2), Julius Randle (3), Jaden McDaniels (3) and Rudy Gobert (2). 

End of first quarter: Timberwolves 31, Lakers 22

10:43 p.m. — At the end of the first frame, it's been all Timberwolves for the most part. L.A. has lacked energy in an elimination game, and its star duo is shooting a combined 1-8 from the floor. Doncic brings the Lakers within nine points with three free throws at the end of the quarter.

10:39 p.m. — Minnesota is maintaining its double-digit lead despite 3-14 shooting from deep. 

Big Jelly. short hook. 🍇 pic.twitter.com/iIFhjif9t6

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 1, 2025

10:37 p.m. — Maxi Kleber is officially making his Lakers debut in an elimination game. The former Maverick is back on the floor, and Los Angeles will hope his size and shooting will provide a spark. 

10:36 p.m. — Kyrie Irving, the former teammate of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, is courtside for tonight's matchup. 

Mavericks’ Kyrie Irving courtside for Lakers vs. Timberwolves pic.twitter.com/i9mZQOWh5k

— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) May 1, 2025

10:30 p.m. — The Timberwolves are out to a double-digit advantage in the first quarter, up 23-11. The Lakers' small-ball lineup is being exposed, as Randle and Gobert have a combined 13 points and four rebounds. Both sides are cold from 3-point land to start.

10:23 p.m. — The Lakers are facing an early deficit and struggling to contain Minnesota's size, but Rui Hachimura gets the home crowd going with a nasty left-handed jam over Rudy Gobert.

RUI HACHIMURA POSTER ON GOBERT. 🔥

pic.twitter.com/4GoW5XZu1N

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 1, 2025

10:18 p.m. — Rudy Gobert has a major size advantage on both ends to begin this game. The Lakers went small, with Jaxson Hayes out of the starting lineup.

10:14 p.m. — They've tipped off in crypto.com Arena. Julius Randle opens the scoring with a midrange bucket. 

let's get it started, Ju. pic.twitter.com/FbtKXueRfr

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 1, 2025

Pregame

9:43 p.m. — The starters for Game 5:

Timberwolves:

• Mike Conley
• Anthony Edwards
• Jaden McDaniels
• Julius Randle
• Rudy Gobert

Lakers:

• Luka Doncic
• Austin Reaves
• Dorian Finney-Smith
• LeBron James
• Rui Hachimura

9:27 p.m. — LeBron James also seems pretty loose for Game 5, rapping Eminem's "The Way I Am" to himself during warmups.

LeBron rapping Eminem 😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/kcME7ZOnKc

— House of Highlights (@HoHighlights) April 30, 2025

9:08 p.m. — Lakers head coach JJ Redick, who kept his starters in the game for the entire second half in Game 4, didn't take it kindly when asked pregame whether he'd lean on his assistant for subbing decisions in Game 5.

"You think I don't talk to my assistants about substitutions every single timeout?" Redick said before storming out.

JJ Redick did not like this question about sticking with his starters for the entire 2nd half of Game 4 pic.twitter.com/Z9wX8TjbS3

— Dane Moore (@DaneMooreNBA) May 1, 2025

8:36 p.m. — Anthony Edwards looks relaxed, just a win away from sending the Lakers home.

Anthony Edwards vibing pregame as he and the Timberwolves look to the close out the Lakers tonight in LA 🕺

(via @MayaAflakpi) pic.twitter.com/WCIvXk9yHv

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 1, 2025

8:17 p.m. — LeBron James and Luka Doncic have both famously been at their best in elimination games. Will they keep Los Angeles afloat tonight?

Luka Doncic - 33.4 PPG in 8 career elimination games

LeBron James - 33.5 PPG in 28 career elimination games

LeBron and Luka are the two highest elimination game scorers in NBA History, per @NBA_University pic.twitter.com/b2KSTkmWef

— Underdog Picks (@UnderdogPicks) April 30, 2025

8:14 p.m. — Maxi Kleber, who the Lakers acquired from the Mavericks in the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade, is seeking to make his Los Angeles debut tonight. Kleber, an eight-year veteran, has been out since Jan. 25 with a foot injury. If he plays, he could give the Lakers an extra shooter.

BREAKING NEWS: Maxi Kleber is on the court warming up for the Lakers and is hoping to play tonight. pic.twitter.com/7hZFHIhmjU

— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) April 30, 2025

8:12 p.m. — Fresh off his 43-point game last time out, Anthony Edwards is in the building for Game 5.

Ant has arrived for Wolves-Lakers Game 5 😤🔒 pic.twitter.com/YS3gaAidyl

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 30, 2025

Lakers vs. Timberwolves start time

• Date: Wednesday, April 30
• Time: 10:00 p.m. ET

Game 5 between Los Angeles and Minnesota will begin at 10 p.m. ET. The matchup will be played at crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

How to watch Lakers vs. Timberwolves Game 5

• TV channel: TNT, truTV
• Live stream: Max, Sling

TNT and truTV will broadcast Lakers vs. Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Those who need an alternate viewing option can also stream on Max or Sling.

Lakers vs. Timberwolves schedule