The Timberwolves-Lakers Western Conference Play-In Game proved to be pure entertainment; the contest was truly a game of runs.
The Lakers pulled the game out by a score of 108-102, locking up the seventh seed out in the West, and will face the Memphis Grizzles in round one.
Los Angeles has had an up-and-down year. However, they compiled a 16-7 record after the trade deadline and began to turn things around for the better. LeBron James‘ club got a play-in spot and ultimately took care of business. They now earn a proper playoff berth.
Lakers coach Darvin Ham spoke about the state of his team postgame.
“Once you get to the end of things, to have everyone healthy, to be playing in the type of rhythm we’re playing in, to defend at the level that we’re defending at, going into the most important time of the year, you can’t ask for a better situation,” said Ham.
James led the way for the Lakers with 30 points on 12-for-21 shooting; he also knocked down 3-for-6 from the three-points and 3-for-3 from the free-throw line. James also grabbed 10 rebounds and dished out six assists.
James’ leadership and big plays down the stretch were major reasons why the Lakers were able to come out with a to victory.
More Lakers Contributions
- Anthony Davis 24 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, dished out four assists, and recorded two steals.
- Austin Reaves scored 12 points, grabbed six rebounds, and dished out three assists.
- Dennis Schroder scored 21 points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out two assists off the bench.
- Rui Hachimura scored 12 points and grabbed two rebounds off the bench.
The Los Angeles Lakers now travel to Memphis, Tennessee to face the Memphis Grizzles in round one. Game one is Sunday, 4/16/23 at 3 pm Eastern/ Noon Pacific from the FedEx Forum.
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