In Game 1 of their first-round matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Los Angeles Lakers jumped out to a 7-point first quarter lead before crumbling on both sides of the ball and losing Saturday’s game 117-95.
Despite a 37-point performance from star guard Luka Doncic, L.A.’s defense didn’t put up a strong enough fight to make the game competitive.
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Per ESPN’s David McMenamin, Redick told reporters on Monday that the Lakers should have scrimmaged more in preparation for Game 1 and that Monday was their best practice in months.
JJ Redick said in retrospect he and his coaching staff wonder if they should have scrimmaged more with the week off going into Game 1. He said LAL had their best practice in months today and worked up a good lather
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 21, 2025
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On Saturday, Redick explained what went wrong in Game 1.
“It’s not to say our guys weren’t ready to withstand a playoff-level basketball game. … I’m not sure physically we were ready,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said. “And really when [the Wolves] started playing with a lot of thrust and physicality, we just didn’t respond to meet that.”
While Minnesota dominated on both ends of the floor, Doncic reiterated that it’s a seven-game series.
“It was a great atmosphere,” Doncic said. “I’m sorry we couldn’t get the win — the first win. But it’s always first to four.”
James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
