Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 5: Prediction

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 5: Prediction, Probable Starting Lineups, And Injury Updates (April 30, 2025)

Game 5 updates of Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves ,including Prediction, Probable Starting Lineups, and Injury status — *Anthony Edwards and Rui Hachimura (Photo By Matt Blewett/Imagn Images)*

The Crypto Arena will host the fifth game of the NBA playoff series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday, April 30.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are playing significantly well this post-season, winning back-to-back games. The Wolves won Game 4 by 116-113 to lead the Lakers 3-1 in the series. In the recent matchup, their power forward, Jaden McDaniels, made a substantial impact on both ends of the court in the final minute. Anthony Edwards dominated with his valuable 43 points, including the winning free throws drawn against James in the final 10 seconds.

On the other hand, the Lakers are looking inconsistent so far, with a record of 5-5 from their last ten games. They are also struggling in the playoff series and managed to secure a single victory in the second game, supported by Luka Doncic’s promising performance. In the recent game, despite having 27 points and 12 rebounds, Lebron James was scoreless in the fourth, while Doncic made his crucial 38 points but wasn’t effective at the end. Moreover, Austin Reaves missed the buzzer-beater.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 5: Prediction

Mar 2, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) dribbles against LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) and guard James Harden (1) during the second quarter at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images

Minnesota, having the upper hand in the series, would be looking to seal their Round 2 berth, while the Lakers, with their improved strategy, must be looking to extend the series. However, the Lakers will play at their home court where their bench players usually play well, and the crowd energy can be a significant factor for them to shift the dynamics. Moreover, the Timberwolves‘ defensive approach and late-game execution can be key advantages they will try to replicate. The game is expected to be a close contest, and the outcome will be decided in the final minutes.