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The LA Lakers will look to bounce back from their 117-95 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA playoffs at the Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday.
The Lakers were outplayed on both ends by a physical T-Wolves unit in Game 1. Minnesota played hard and remained aggressive on offense to dismantle the Lakers by 22 points in their playoff opener.
By Lakers coach JJ Redick's admission, LA has prepared better for the upcoming matchup after lacking energy and focus in the first game. LeBron James called the game crucial, while Austin Reaves said he had to overcome his "sh**y" performance.
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The Timberwolves will once again rely on their size and physicality. Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle will be in focus as they aim to take a 2-0 lead back to Minnesota.
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Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Lakers Preview, Predicted Starting Lineups, Betting Tips, Odds, and Prediction
The Timberwolves vs Lakers showdown tips off at 10 PM ET. Live coverage will be on TNT. The game can be live streamed on Max. Fans can also watch the contest on the NBA app with a subscription to the NBA League Pass.
Here are the odds as listed at the time of writing:
Note: Odds are subject to change closer to tip-off.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Lakers Preview
The Lakers need to shore up their toothless interior defense. They dared Jaden McDaniels to launch from deep in Game 1, and the forward made them pay. He ended up nailing all three of his 3s.
The Lakers also struggled on offense. While they went toe-to-toe with Minnesota in the first quarter, the Purple and Gold fell apart down the stretch.
The Minnesota Timberwolves are big and physical and the Lakers will need to make adjustments in Game 2.
LA Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves Predicted Starting Lineups
The Lakers are most likely to remain unchanged from their previous game. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves should start as PG and SG, while Rui Hachimura and LeBron James are expected to take on forward duties at SF and PF, respectively. Jaxson Hayes will play the five.
The Timberwolves will stick with Mike Conley at PG, Anthony Edwards at SG, Jaden McDaniels at SF, Julius Randle at PF, and Rudy Gobert at C.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Lakers Betting Tips
For the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards comes in with an o/u of -112/-109 on points. Julius Randle is -102/-122 on points and rebounds. Donte DiVincenzo is -106/-115 on points and assists. LeBron James is one of the players to keep an eye on for the Lakers with an o/u of -125/-125 on points and rebounds. Luka Doncic is -114/-105 on points.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Lakers Prediction
While the Timberwolves have momentum on their side, it's always hard to count out LeBron James and Luka Doncic in a playoff setting. Expect a much improved performance from LA in Game 2, culminating in a close win.
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