In the ongoing playoff series, the Los Angeles Lakers struggle against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have a significant advantage in size. Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels underscored this reality, stating that when Lakers center Jaxson Hayes sits, the Lakers lack a rim protector. He exploited this weakness in Game 1, scoring 25 points and grabbing nine rebounds with remarkable efficiency. The Lakers also faced challenges on the boards and defending against the Timberwolves' three-point shooting, indicating that adjustments will be crucial in Game 2.