When the Los Angeles Lakers kicked off their preseason in early October, it was against the Minnesota Timberwolves. When they started the regular season a few weeks later, their f

One of the questions for the Timberwolves in this playoff series against the Lakers was how would they respond in a tight game against two stars in LeBron James and Luka Doncic who have thrived in those situations.

Not to be overlooked in Minnesota’s game-closing effort was its stellar defensive showing. The Lakers missed five straight shots after tying the game at 103-103 before Los Angeles coach J.J. Redick waved the white flag and removed the starters from the game in the final minute.