The Los Angeles Lakers will need to win Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in their first-round playoff series to keep their season alive. Despite stellar performances from their star duo, the Lakers have struggled to close out games, particularly in the fourth quarter, a recurring theme that reared its head in Game 4, when the Lakers held a double-digit lead entering the final period but ultimately fell 116-113.

Luka Doncic delivered 38 points in the loss, while LeBron James contributed 27 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists. However, the Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards erupted for 43 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter, leading Minnesota to victory.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77)

Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

Throughout the series, Doncic has averaged 30.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. James has been equally impactful, averaging 26.3 points, 9.5 rebounds and 5.5 per game.

Despite their efforts, the Lakers have been outscored 105-69 in the fourth quarters across the series. Looking ahead to Game 5 at Crypto.com Arena, Doncic emphasized the urgency of the situation

“Definitely treat it like a Game 7,” he said. “You lose, you go home. You can’t be looking into the future. We gotta focus on this game and from there, we go on.” 

The Lakers face a formidable challenge in the Timberwolves’ elite defense and the dynamic play of Edwards, who has averaged 29.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 5.8 assists in the series. To extend the series, Los Angeles must find a way to overcome these obstacles and capitalize on their home-court advantage.

Game 5 is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 10:00 PM EDT.