Lakers Defeat Timberwolves in Overtime, Proceed to Playoffs

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves Tuesday night in overtime, 108-102, to officially secure a spot in the playoffs. It was an impressive comeback for the Lakers after trailing 15 points behind the Timberwolves during the second half.

Both teams had slip ups during the game, and it turned into a match of ‘who could choke less.’ There were 20 turnovers on each side and gut-wrenching mistakes before Los Angeles pulled through.

Lebron James, Anthony Davis and Dennis Schröder led their team to victory and kept a continuous effort. James earned 30 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, Davis finished with 24 points, 15 rebounds and four assists, and Schröder came in clutch with 21 points, four rebounds and two assists.

During the postgame interview, James was asked how he feels about the Lakers progression this season after a 2-10 start. “The analytics site said we had a 0.3% chance of making the postseason, so all you ask for is a chance, I guess,” said James. “And for us to turn around our season and give ourselves an opportunity to compete for the Larry O’Brian trophy that’s all you can ask for.” James played his second-most minutes in a game this season tonight.

The play-in tournament game reflected the Lakers earlier in the season. It had a slow start, messy moments, and doubtfulness. But just as quickly as a game appears over, it can flip in an instant.

The Timberwolves could not score during the last six minutes of the game versus the Lakers defense. This was the tipping point that turned the night upside down and gave Los Angeles the upper hand. Coach Darvin Ham said, “We had made a plan to not try within our best abilities, to try not to let Anthony Edwards get loose and we double teamed them for most of the game...they really made us work for this one...we were very fortunate to come out with this win.”

Seconds before the game went into overtime, Schröder earned the lead for the Lakers with a three-pointer that had Crypto Arena roaring. When it looked like LA punched their ticket to playoffs, Davis jeopardized the win when he fouled Minnesota’s Mike Conley with seconds left in regular playing time. Conley tied the game when he earned three points from the foul and sent the nailbiter into overtime. The Lakers kept their goal in mind and ended up on top.

Coach Ham expressed his gratitude for Schröders' last second clutch moves during the postgame press conference. “His heart, his competitive spirit, just his ability to make great plays and take tough matchups in the biggest moments. His attitude, his confidence, he’s unbelievable, extraordinary and he lives for those types of moments. Earlier in the year, he got hit in the corner on the same similar shot late in the game...he missed that shot but to see him knock it down, he’s going to do everything with confidence.”

The Lakers will move on to the first round of playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday.