Los Angeles Lakers Insider: Breaking News, Player Interviews & Highlights

Tag: Lakers vs Timberwolves playoff preview

  • Lakers Injury Update: LeBron James Probable, Maxi Kleber Out vs Timberwolves

    Lakers Injury Update: LeBron James Probable, Maxi Kleber Out vs Timberwolves

    The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for their first round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves and the injury report is a mixed bag. LeBron James is listed as probable with a left hip flexor strain while Maxi Kleber is out as he continues to recover from right foot surgery.

    LeBron James Will Play Despite Hip Flexor Issues

    LeBron James tweaked his hip flexor in the Lakers final regular season game against the Houston Rockets. When asked about his status on Friday, James said he expects to play in Game 1 on Saturday.

    “I’ll play,” James said. “I’ve been through worse and I feel good.”

    James is key to the Lakers success especially in a long playoff series. His ability to lead on both ends of the floor will be huge in determining if the Lakers can go deep in the playoffs.

    Maxi Kleber Still Out as Recovery Continues

    Maxi Kleber, who had surgery on his right foot earlier this season, is practicing with the team, but there’s no timeline for his return. So his playoff availability is still up in the air, and the Lakers are missing a frontcourt piece.

    “Maxi’s working hard to get back, but we’re not putting any pressure on him,” head coach JJ Redick said. “His health comes first.”

    While Kleber’s absence is a blow, the Lakers seem to be in good shape overall health-wise. The week off after clinching the 3rd seed in the West allowed the team to rest and recharge, and now they’re set up for what they hope will be a long playoff run.

    Playoff Schedule Works in Lakers’ Favor

    The Lakers have another advantage going into the series: the playoff schedule. With multiple days off between some games, guys like LeBron and Luka will have extra time to recover between games. That’s huge for a veteran heavy team trying to stay fresh throughout the postseason.

    For the Lakers to make a real championship push, they need all their key guys healthy and available. So far, so good.

    Timberwolves Are Full Strength for Series

    The Timberwolves are at full strength after injuries during the regular season. Both teams will give it their all in this first round series.

    JJ Redick’s Key to Beating the Timberwolves: Protect the Ball

    When asked about his game plan for the Timberwolves, Lakers head coach JJ Redick said protecting the ball is key. He pointed out turnovers as the biggest obstacle for the Lakers to overcome.

    “It’s one of the biggest keys of the series,” Redick said after practice on Wednesday. “It’s just our ability to get a shot. Everybody talks about Nickell [Alexander-Walker] and [Jaden] McDaniels as these disruptors—which they are. They’re two of the best in the NBA, but Ant on the ball, [Donte] DiVincenzo on the ball, DiVincenzo in dribble handoffs. Those guys are really disruptors.”

    Redick said the Lakers need to be precise with their offense to avoid mistakes. The Timberwolves are athletic on the perimeter so turnovers will be a big focus for the Lakers.

  • Los Angeles Lakers’ Unconventional Strategy to Tame Anthony Edwards

    Los Angeles Lakers’ Unconventional Strategy to Tame Anthony Edwards

    The Los Angeles Lakers are going all in as they get ready for their first round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. With Game 1 tipping off on Saturday, April 19, the Lakers have come up with an unorthodox plan to stop Anthony Edwards. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves are looking to slow down LeBron James and Luka Doncic, making this one of the most anticipated matchups of the postseason.

    JJ Redick’s Bold Move: Using Shake Milton and Bronny James to Mimic Edwards

    According to Jovan Buha, Lakers head coach JJ Redick has gone old school in his approach to scouting Anthony Edwards. Instead of using high profile players, Redick has tasked Shake Milton and Bronny James with simulating Edwards in practice.

    This has raised some eyebrows, especially since Milton and James combined for 7.8 points per game this season. But their specific skill sets might justify Redick’s move. Bronny, despite his limited scoring, brings athleticism and the ability to shoot off the dribble—traits that mirror Edwards’ dynamic style. Milton’s experience and versatility makes him a good stand in for Edwards in certain situations.

    We don’t know how this will work, but it shows Redick is willing to think outside the box to prepare for one of the league’s most talented young players.

    Minnesota’s Counter: Joe Ingles Steps In to Simulate Luka Doncic

    On the other side, the Timberwolves are using Joe Ingles to mimic Luka Doncic in practice. At 6’8” Ingles is known for his passing and three point shooting – both of which are similar to Doncic’s game. He’s the obvious choice to help the Timberwolves anticipate Doncic’s moves.

    The Timberwolves are aware of the threat Doncic is with LeBron. By preparing for both stars they hope to get an edge in what should be a close series.

    Anthony Edwards vs. the Lakers: Season Recap

    Anthony Edwards has tormented the Lakers all season, averaging 27 points per game in their four regular season meetings. He’s been able to create for himself off the dribble and finish at the rim and has been nearly unstoppable. For the Lakers to advance they need to find a way to stop him.

    The Timberwolves have only played Doncic once since he joined the Lakers. He scored 21 points on 6 of 20 shooting in that game. Was that a fluke or a sign of things to come?

    What’s on the line: A Playoff Series for the Ages

    One game separates these teams in the regular season so expect a back and forth battle with a lot of intensity and drama. Both teams are counting on their scouting to give them an edge but it will come down to execution.

    Will the Lakers’ roll of the dice on Shake Milton and Bronny James pay off? Or will Anthony Edwards become a playoff star? And can Joe Ingles imitate Doncic enough to prepare the Timberwolves for the real deal?