Luka Doncic delivered a dominant performance with a game-high 31 points as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 94-85 in Game 2 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series, leveling the series at 1-1.
Doncic came out hot, scoring 16 of his points in the first quarter, helping the Lakers build a commanding 34-15 lead. He nearly recorded a triple-double, finishing with 12 rebounds and nine assists.
LeBron James added 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Austin Reaves chipped in 16 points to support the Lakers' bounce-back win.
“It was just a question of whether we’d be more physical or not, and I think we showed that,” said Doncic postgame. “We learned from Game 1 and stayed focused for all 48 minutes.”
The Timberwolves, who took the series opener, struggled offensively this time around. Julius Randle led Minnesota with 27 points and Anthony Edwards followed with 25.
“It felt like every time I got the ball, they shifted into a zone,” Edwards said. “It was a little confusing, but we’ll review the tape and be ready for Game 3.”
Eastern Conference: Pacers Take 2-0 Lead Over Bucks Despite Giannis’ 34-Point Effort
In the East, the Indiana Pacers shocked the Milwaukee Bucks again, securing a 123-115 home win to take a 2-0 series lead.
Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo putting up 34 points, the Bucks couldn’t overcome the Pacers’ balanced attack. Damian Lillard returned from a five-week injury layoff and hit a crucial three-pointer late in the fourth quarter, narrowing the Pacers' lead to 115-113.
But Andrew Nembhard responded with a clutch three, sealing the game for Indiana. Nembhard finished with 17 points, while Tyrese Haliburton posted 21 points and 12 assists. Pascal Siakam added a double-double with 24 points and 11 rebounds.
“It’s fun—this is what we live for,” said Haliburton. “We’re all competitors, and we’re enjoying the moment.”
Thunder Dominate Grizzlies to Go 2-0 in West Playoff Series
The Oklahoma City Thunder took full control of their first-round series against the Memphis Grizzlies, cruising to a 118-99 win to go up 2-0.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 27 points, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren contributed 24 and 20 points, respectively.
The Grizzlies struggled to keep pace despite strong efforts from Jaren Jackson Jr. (26 points) and Ja Morant (23 points).
