Timberwolves dominate Lakers with strong defensive performance
- Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert were essential in the Timberwolves' victory over the Lakers.
- The Timberwolves' defense held the Lakers to 80 points, marking their lowest since 2017.
- The game's outcome illustrates the Timberwolves' resurgence while the Lakers continue to struggle.
On December 2, 2024, the Minnesota Timberwolves faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers in Minneapolis, delivering a significant blowout victory with a final score of 109-80. The Timberwolves showcased a stellar performance, primarily led by Julius Randle, who scored 18 points while Rudy Gobert contributed notably with 17 points and 12 rebounds. The victory was highlighted by the team's defensive strategy, which limited the Lakers to their lowest point total since 2017. The Lakers struggled offensively, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis failing to reach their scoring potentials, garnering only 10 and 12 points respectively. This loss marked the Lakers' fifth defeat in their last seven games, emphasizing their ongoing struggles under rookie coach J.J. Redick. In contrast, the Timberwolves displayed a revitalized transition game and effective three-point shooting, hitting 15 out of 35 attempts from beyond the arc. The Timberwolves managed to keep the Lakers under 100 points for the second consecutive game, demonstrating the defensive prowess that led them to excel in scoring defense for the 2023-24 season. Looking ahead, the Timberwolves will visit the Los Angeles Clippers while the Lakers prepare for their upcoming game against the Miami Heat.