The Los Angeles Lakers might need a major leap to climb higher on the conference table right away. With wins in all four of their previous games, the team now hosts the Minnesota Timberwolves in Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers (45-33) have recently seen the top end of the play-in pool. On the other side, the Wolves (53-24) find themselves in a battle for the West’s throne alongside the Denver Nuggets. While the LA team seems determined to put themselves in the best position before the playoffs, they will be without LeBron James in the contest!

According to head coach Darvin Ham, LeBron James was usually spearheading the team’s aspirations. However, the King reportedly fell too sick upon reaching the arena, prompting him to leave the premises and tend to his health. He was initially listed as questionable on the Lakers injury report. But it had more to do with his season-long ankle concerns. With that, Taurean Prince could see additional playing time.

Moreover, their report saw Anthony Davis marked a questionable because of hyperextended knee alongside Gabe Vincent, Christian Wood (knee), Jalen Hood-Schifino (back surgery) Jarred Vanderbilt (foot) cited out. However, Davis has been given a green light for the contest.

On the other hand, the Wolves enter the matchup with Karl-Anthony Towns rehabbing his meniscus, anticipating a return before the season ends. Moreover, Jaylen Clark also sees time away because of an Achilles injury. Regardless, they see no change in their recent roster. Even though they will take the court on a losing momentum (an 87-97 loss against the Phoenix Suns), they continue to build on their 7 wins in the last 10 games. Moreover, their track record against the Lakers supports the notion.

Los Angeles Lakers vs the Timberwolves this season

The Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves have played 3 games this season, aligned for their season-finale tonight. The surging Wolves currently hold a 2-1 advantage, winning both December matchups.

The December 21 games saw the Wolves posting a 36-point opening quarter for a 4-point lead. As the Lakers battled without LeBron James, the young team maintained their 4-point edge into the fourth quarter. Anthony Davis posted 31 points on an efficient 55% shooting, while Taurean Prince stepped up for 14 points (80% shooting). However, the Wolves evened their fireworks, winning the game 118-111.

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Both teams met again on December 30, with LeBron James reinstated to the lineup this time around. While he helped them gain a first-quarter advantage, the Wolves countered that by mounting a 4-point lead at the half. As they slowly built on it behind Anthony Edwards’ 31 points, they marked another win in the books.

The Lakers learned from their mistakes, ensuring a competitive fourth quarter in March. As the Wolves surged early in the game, their starters (all 5 in double-digits) slowly racked up the scoreboards. They restricted the Wolves to just 17 points in the final stretch, winning the game 120-109.

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