MINNEAPOLIS – On his 39th birthday, LeBron James fought through illness to contribute to the Los Angeles Lakers’ effort against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but it wasn’t enough as Minnesota secured a narrow 108-106 victory on Saturday night. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 31 points, and Naz Reid added crucial support from the bench.
Despite a late-game controversy over James’ long jumper being ruled a two-pointer instead of a three, the Timberwolves held on for the win. Rudy Gobert’s double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds helped Minnesota overcome 19 turnovers and extend their impressive home record to 14-1.
Minnesota coach Chris Finch acknowledged the team’s turnover issues but was pleased with their shooting and movement. Edwards’ 11 fourth-quarter points, including key three-pointers, kept the Lakers at bay. Mike Conley’s three-pointer with 35 seconds left appeared to seal the game for the Timberwolves.
The ruling on James’ jumper, which he and others believed should have been a three-pointer, added tension to the game’s closing moments. James expressed frustration over the replay decision, but the call stood, leaving Minnesota ahead. Edwards secured the win by making one of two free throws, while James’ final buzzer-beater attempt missed.
Anthony Davis had a standout game for Los Angeles with 33 points, 17 rebounds, and eight assists. James added 26 points, but the Lakers’ shooting struggles continued, particularly from beyond the arc.
Lakers coach Darvin Ham highlighted missed opportunities, noting that the team couldn’t capitalize on their usual shots. The Lakers, who have lost seven of their last ten games, were also inefficient in converting Minnesota’s turnovers into points.
Los Angeles initially led by as many as 11 points in the first quarter, with Davis dominating on both ends. However, the Timberwolves’ shooting, led by Reid and Edwards, helped them to recover and ultimately take control of the game.
Edwards praised Reid’s contribution, emphasizing his crucial role in the absence of Karl-Anthony Towns, who struggled during the game.
Upcoming Games
The Los Angeles Lakers face a quick turnaround as they play the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday afternoon. The Minnesota Timberwolves will travel to New York to play the Knicks on New Year’s Day, looking to build on their strong home form.
