The Minnesota Timberwolves pulled off a thrilling comeback to defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 116–113 on Sunday, taking a commanding 3–1 lead in their first-round playoff series.
Jaden McDaniels delivered the key moment, completing a three-point play with 39.5 seconds left for the go-ahead basket, then immediately stole the inbounds pass from LeBron James. Anthony Edwards, who erupted for 43 points, extended the Timberwolves’ lead by sinking two clutch free throws after drawing a foul on James with 10 seconds left.
The Lakers had one final shot to tie the game, but after strong defensive pressure on James and Luka Doncic at the perimeter, the ball found Austin Reaves in the corner. His three-point attempt rattled out, and McDaniels secured the rebound as the buzzer sounded.
Julius Randle contributed 25 points, while McDaniels finished with a double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds. Minnesota had trailed by 12 late in the third quarter before their rally.
Doncic, battling a stomach bug earlier in the series, bounced back with 38 points on 13-for-28 shooting. Still, the Lakers now face a must-win Game 5 at home on Wednesday to stay alive.
Quick Notes on Other Games:
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Knicks 94, Pistons 93:
Karl-Anthony Towns hit a crucial 3-pointer with under a minute left to lift New York past Detroit. Jalen Brunson added 32 points and 11 assists. Detroit’s Cade Cunningham posted a triple-double (25 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists) but struggled late. The Knicks lead the series 3–1. -
Celtics 107, Magic 98:
Jayson Tatum posted 37 points and 14 rebounds as Boston took a 3–1 series lead against Orlando. Kristaps Porzingis added 19 points despite foul trouble. Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 31 points.