The Los Angeles Lakers started the 2024-25 NBA season with a victory, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 110-103 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Tuesday.
The Timberwolves struggled to contain Anthony Davis, who excelled offensively and defensively. Davis recorded an impressive stat line with 36 points, 16 rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and one steal. Rui Hachimura contributed 18 points and five rebounds, while LeBron James added 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
This game marked the regular-season debut of new head coach JJ Redick and saw rookie Bronny James take the court for three minutes in the second quarter. In doing so, they made history as the first father-son duo to play together in an NBA game. LeBron expressed his pride in sharing this moment with his son, highlighting the importance of family.
Throughout the match, the Timberwolves managed to close the gap to four points early in the fourth quarter at 85-81, but the Lakers responded with a 6-0 run that pushed their lead back to ten. Jaxson Hayes made significant contributions off the bench, scoring ten points and grabbing four rebounds while making a notable defensive play against Mike Conley.
By the end of the third quarter, the Lakers led 82-74 despite Minnesota’s 15 turnovers, which had cost them 17 points. The Lakers dominated in the paint, outscoring the Timberwolves 54-28 and securing 14 offensive rebounds to Minnesota’s eight.
Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 19 points, while Anthony Davis was the standout performer for the Lakers with a double-double, accumulating 22 points and ten rebounds late in the game.
Davis made headlines with a remarkable block against Rudy Gobert, demonstrating his defensive prowess. At halftime, the Lakers held a 55-42 advantage, having shot the ball more efficiently than Minnesota, which struggled with turnovers.
Bronny James’s debut added excitement to the evening, as he played briefly alongside his father, LeBron. Although he didn’t score, the moment was historic for the NBA.
The Timberwolves had recently signed center Rudy Gobert to a lucrative contract extension, solidifying his place in Minnesota as they aim to compete in the Western Conference.
As the game unfolded, fans were treated to a close contest that highlighted the physicality and skill both teams bring to the court as they embark on their respective campaigns for the season.