The Los Angeles Lakers will make the short trip to Acrisure Arena to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday. With this, the purple and gold get their preseason schedule underway ahead of the NBA 2024-25 season.
The Lakers have entered a new era under the leadership of JJ Redick, and it will be fascinating to see how the 40-year-old performs, as there will be immediate pressure on him to deliver positive results.
When and where Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves?
The Lakers take on the Timberwolves at Acrisure Arena in Pittsburgh, with tip-off scheduled for 10:30 p.m.ET/7:30 p.m. PT on Friday for viewers in the USA.
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Where to watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves?
In the USA, the game will be televised live on NBA TV and SPECSN (local). Coverage will start one hour before the tip-off in Pennsylvania.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves streaming details
Fans can also catch the preseason game live online via Fubo TV app and website, which is available for $79.99 a month.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Lakers: What to expect
With the NBA calendar set to be back in full swing in two weeks, those who make the journey will have the chance to see some big names battle against each other, such as LeBron James and Anthony Edwards, alongside new names, including Bronny James and Rob Dillingham, hoping to impress their coaches.
Lakers fans will be hoping that proceedings on the court are a lot better than off it, as barring losing Taurean Prince to Milwaukee and two draft picks, this summer on the trade front has been worryingly quiet for the team.
The Lakers' success will largely depend on LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with Austin Reaves providing solid contributions on both ends of the court. Consistency from D'Angelo Russell is crucial. A healthy Gabe Vincent, Cam Reddish and Jarred Vanderbilt could bolster the second unit, which struggled with injuries last season.
Meanwhile, the Wolves have recruited well, and Chris Finch has been given the opportunity to bring in the players that he wants, unlike last year. New players such as Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, along with rookie Rob Dillingham, who put up a strong showing in the Las Vegas Summer League, indicate increased squad depth, something they have been lacking for a while and really hindered them last season.
It is safe to say that the Wolves defied expectations last year to reach Western Conference finals and look even better on paper this time around. With the newfound expansive basketball and freshened-up roster, it could be an exciting season for Wolves fans.
Timberwolves Nation! You can check out the latest Minnesota Timberwolves Schedule and dive into the Timberwolves Depth Chart for NBA Season 2024-25.