NBA Playoffs: LA Lakers Near Elimination After Anthony Edwards Scores 43 Points

The Minnesota Timberwolves have seized a commanding 3-1 series lead against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, following two consecutive home victories.

Anthony Edwards delivered a stellar performance in Game 4, scoring 43 points and propelling Minnesota to a narrow 116-113 win. His impressive outing also included nine rebounds and six assists, shooting 12-for-23 from the field.

Despite a promising lead late in the third quarter, the Lakers’ collapse in the fourth quarter pushed them to the verge of elimination.

Supporting Edwards, Julius Randle contributed 25 points, while Jaden McDaniels added a solid double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds for the Timberwolves.

On the Lakers’ side, Luka Dončić stood out with a powerful 38-point effort, marking his third 30-point game of the series. LeBron James delivered 27 points and secured 12 rebounds, while Rui Hachimura chipped in with 23 points.

The Timberwolves entered halftime holding a slim 61-58 lead. The Lakers responded after the break with a strong 9-0 run, turning a three-point deficit into an eight-point advantage. However, Minnesota quickly closed the gap with a nine-point streak of their own.

Although the Lakers managed a late 14-6 burst in the third quarter to regain control, the fourth quarter told a different story. The Timberwolves dominated the final period, leaving the Lakers scrambling.

If the Timberwolves fail to clinch the series in Game 5, they will have another opportunity in Game 6. Meanwhile, the Lakers are now facing a do-or-die scenario as they head into a critical Game 5 showdown on Wednesday.