The Minnesota Timberwolves have officially advanced to the Western Conference semifinals after a 103-96 Game 5 win over the Los Angeles Lakers, sending LeBron James and Luka Dončić into the offseason with more questions than answers. The win came courtesy of a career playoff performance by Rudy Gobert, who delivered 27 points and 24 rebounds—a rare and commanding 20-20 game in the NBA playoffs.

Rudy Gobert Shines as Timberwolves Outmuscle Lakers

Gobert, often criticized for underwhelming playoff performances, flipped the narrative in Game 5, finishing with 12-of-15 shooting from the field. With the Lakers opting not to play a true center—benching both Jaxson Hayes and Alex Len—Gobert exploited the undersized lineup with dominance in the paint.

“He was the dragon tonight,” said Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, recognizing Gobert’s game-changing impact.

Despite Minnesota’s poor 3-point shooting (7-of-47), Gobert’s interior presence kept the offense flowing and tilted the series decisively in favor of the Timberwolves.

Lakers Struggle to Keep Up Without Size

The Lakers’ Game 5 lineup lacked size, with no starter taller than 6-foot-8. This left them vulnerable inside and reliant on outside shooting and transition play, neither of which proved consistent. The lack of rim protection allowed Gobert to feast, while the absence of physical matchups drained the Lakers’ defensive energy in the fourth quarter.

Luka Dončić, despite a scare with a back injury in the second quarter, led the Lakers with 28 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds. He returned after halftime but was visibly limited at times.

Anthony Edwards Off Night, But Timberwolves Win Anyway

After erupting for 43 points in Game 4, Anthony Edwards cooled off significantly, finishing with 12 points on 5-of-19 shooting. Still, his all-around game—including 11 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals—helped maintain Minnesota’s tempo when it mattered most.

On the other side, Austin Reaves mirrored Edwards’ struggles, contributing just 12 points on 5-of-14 shooting for the Lakers.

Maxi Kleber Returns, but It’s Too Late for Lakers

Maxi Kleber, part of the Dončić trade, made his season debut after recovering from a foot injury. His contribution—2 points in 5 minutes—highlighted how thin and desperate the Lakers rotation had become. That Kleber was played over Hayes or Len spoke volumes about head coach JJ Redick’s dwindling options.

What’s Next for the Timberwolves and Lakers?

• The Timberwolves will face the winner of the Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets series, with the Warriors currently holding a 3-2 edge.

• The Lakers exit the 2025 NBA Playoffs with significant questions around LeBron James’ future, roster construction around Dončić, and Redick’s coaching decisions.

“I can get a lot better,” Redick admitted postgame, hinting at offseason reflection after a turbulent series.