Lakers vs Timberwolves Injury Updates, NBA 24-25: The Los Angeles Lakers (50-32) will host the Minnesota Timberwolves (49-33) in Game 2 of their first-round NBA playoff matchup on April 22, 2025.
The Lakers, with their star LeBron James, will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage at Crypto.com Arena. The Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards, are coming off a tight Game 1 loss and will need to adjust to the absence of key players to level the series.
Lakers vs Timberwolves Injury Report
Los Angeles Lakers:
- Maxi Kleber (F): Out (Foot Injury)Impact and Likely Replacement: Kleber’s absence impacts the Lakers’ frontcourt depth, especially in terms of defense and spacing. Expect more minutes from veteran Dorian Finney-Smith and a likely increase in small-ball lineups, with LeBron James potentially covering some additional frontcourt duties.
Minnesota Timberwolves:
- Robert Dillingham (G): Out (Ankle Injury)Impact and Likely Replacement: Dillingham’s injury leaves a gap in the Timberwolves’ backcourt. Look for increased roles from Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels, with McDaniels likely seeing more time at the guard position, given his versatility.
Lakers vs Timberwolves Last Five Head-to-Head Matches:
In recent encounters, the Lakers and Timberwolves have been closely matched, but the Lakers have had the upper hand. Here’s a look at their last five games:
| Date | Home Team | Final Score | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 19, 2025 | Los Angeles | 95-117 | Minnesota |
| Feb 27, 2025 | Los Angeles | 111-102 | Los Angeles |
| Dec 13, 2024 | Los Angeles | 87-97 | Minnesota |
| Dec 2, 2024 | Los Angeles | 80-109 | Minnesota |
| Oct 22, 2024 | Los Angeles | 110-103 | Los Angeles |
Lakers vs Timberwolves Key Takeaways:
- Head-to-Head Record: Lakers have won 2 of the last 5 matchups, while the Timberwolves have won 3.
- Average Points per Game: Lakers – 94.6, Timberwolves – 105.2
- Point Differential: -10.6 in favor of Minnesota
The Timberwolves have dominated the Lakers in recent matchups, including a decisive Game 1 win, where their defense helped seal the deal.
Lakers vs Timberwolves Key Matchups
- LeBron James vs. Anthony Edwards: The veteran star against the young, explosive Edwards will be a crucial matchup. James’ experience and leadership could prove vital against Edwards’ scoring ability.
- Rudy Gobert vs. Lakers’ Frontcourt: Gobert’s rebounding and rim protection will be key for the Timberwolves, especially in the absence of Robert Dillingham. The Lakers’ frontcourt, including Jaxson Hayes and Luka Doncic, will need to outplay Gobert and the Timberwolves’ big men.
Playoff Implications
For the Lakers, a win in Game 2 would put them in a commanding position to advance to the next round, especially with the home-court advantage. The Timberwolves, facing a tough challenge without Dillingham, need to rally and show resilience to avoid falling into a 2-0 hole.
The Lakers will likely take the win in Game 2, leveraging their depth, LeBron James’ leadership, and strong overall play. While Edwards and Gobert will continue to keep Minnesota competitive, the Lakers’ star power and home-court advantage should prove too much in this matchup.