Lakers Dominate the Timberwolves for First Win of the Season as Doncic Makes History
When the Lakers last faced the Minnesota Timberwolves, it was in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. At that time, the Lakers barely got the team involved in the series, and on top of that, Rudy Gobert was going off for double-doubles. The most significant difference between that series and this Lakers win was that more players got involved; 11 players checked in. Also, Luka Doncic was at it again with his magic. He was destroying Minnesota’s defense at times, as if it were all by himself. It was far from it, though Luka had a historic 49 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists. Doncic made history: he is the first player in Lakers history to start a season with consecutive 40-point, 10-rebound, and five-assist games.
It wasn't all the Luka show either; Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura both chipped in with over 20 points in the game as well. Beyond that, the Timberwolves' defense collapsed entirely. Wolves head coach Chris Finch called the 128-110 loss one of the worst defensive performances we’ve had in a long time. While Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle had great offensive games, the team has been slacking off to start the season. For the Lakers, more than anything, they need another sharpshooter. This game proved why Luka brings so much attention to the table. With a stronger bench, this will free other players up and make the Lakers an even more deadly team in the Western Conference.
The performance is much improved over the Lakers' first game of the season. Against the Warriors, they looked outmatched entirely and couldn't get over the hump despite making a few runs. In the second quarter of last night’s game, the Lakers looked completely in control over the Timberwolves and never looked back. LA’s new big man Deandre Ayton even looked more impressive, notching 15 points and improving his points per game average on the season. The two biggest problems the Lakers need to solve are Ayton as a defensive anchor. He needs to improve and step it up at that position, and also in our offense when Doncic is resting. The team needs to figure out and create plays that involve everyone else to give our superstar Slovenian rest now and then. This game, though, was at least a step in the right direction.
