Since opening night, both the Lakers and Timberwolves have struggled with consistency. Minnesota, a Western Conference finalist last season, is 9-10 and currently 11th in the standings, having lost seven of their last 10 games. Like the Lakers, they’re eager to rebound and avoid further setbacks.
Hosting a fatigued Lakers team on the second night of a back-to-back, the Wolves are poised to capitalize. Known for their three-point volume (40.6 attempts per game) and efficiency (40.6%), Minnesota relies heavily on Anthony Edwards, averaging a career-best 27.7 points on 45.3% shooting, including 42.8% from beyond the arc, while adapting post-Karl-Anthony Town trade.
Both teams struggle with rebounding but excel defensively, with the Wolves ranking in the league’s top nine. Defensive pressure from Jaden McDaniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker makes the perimeter a battleground for Lakers guards. In the frontcourt, the Anthony Davis vs. Rudy Gobert matchup will be pivotal.
The Lakers’ opportunity lies in exploiting Minnesota’s transition defense and controlling the pace, as seen in their opening-night success. However, fatigue from their narrow win against the Jazz poses a challenge. With a strong game plan from JJ Redick, L.A. could leverage the Wolves’ inconsistencies to secure a victory.
