The Los Angeles Lakers faced a shocking defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves in their playoff opener, losing 117-95. Despite a promising start to the game, where they led 28-21 at the end of the first quarter, the Lakers faltered in the subsequent periods. The Timberwolves dominated the second quarter, outscoring the Lakers 38-20, and secured an early lead in the third, forcing the Lakers to play catch-up without success.

Key players for Minnesota, like Jaden McDaniels, who scored 25 points, and Naz Reid, with 23 off the bench, significantly impacted the game, shooting a combined 19-of-25 from the field. The Lakers' defense struggled with slow rotations, leading to 25 fast-break points for the Timberwolves. With Game 2 looming, the pressure is on the Lakers to bounce back and avoid a deeper hole in this series.