Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: Preview And Prediction

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 2: Prediction, Probable Starting Lineups, And Injury Updates (April 22, 2025)

Game 2 updates of Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 2 — *LeBron James and Anthony Edwards (Photo By Jayne Kamin/Oncea-Imagn Images)*

The Los Angeles Lakers will host the Minnesota Timberwolves for Game 2 of their NBA playoff first-round series on Tuesday, April 22, at Crypto.com Arena. This game is crucial for both teams to avoid dropping in their current seed in the league standings.

The Timberwolves are playing at a high level, securing 9 wins in their last 10 games. They capitalized on the Lakers’ defensive weaknesses and physical shortcomings in Game 1, winning 117-95. Led by Anthony Davis, the team has averaged 12.5 points more than the total line of 213.5. With a strong offensive lineup that includes Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and Rudy Gobert, they are also performing well in rebounding.

On the other hand, the Lakers have a record of 6-4 in their last ten games, averaging 226.7 points per game. They have covered the spread more than half the time this season and have won about half of their games when heavily favored. Their key players include LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura, while rookie Knecht is contributing around 9 points per game with efficient shooting.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 2: Prediction

*Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt, forward LeBron James, forward Rui Hachimura, center Jaxson Hayes, and Luka Doncic (Photo By Jonathan Hui/Imagn Images)*

The upcoming matchup between the Timberwolves and the Lakers is expected to be a closely contested game. After a disappointing performance in the first game, both teams will look to implement better strategies and improve their gameplay.

The Timberwolves’ strong defense and offense will give them a slight advantage as they aim to maintain their winning streak. Both teams have high-level rosters that can change the momentum of the game. Therefore, a tight contest is anticipated, with the final outcome likely to depend on how effectively both teams perform in the crucial final moments.