The NBA playoffs are heating up, and the Minnesota Timberwolves have made headlines by eliminating the Los Angeles Lakers with a thrilling 103-96 victory in Game 5. Rudy Gobert showcased his dominance, posting playoff career highs of 27 points and 24 rebounds on 2025-05-01 09:09:00, leading the Wolves to their first back-to-back playoff round victories in franchise history.
- Rudy Gobert's playoff career highs: 27 points, 24 rebounds
- Timberwolves eliminate Lakers in Game 5
- Anthony Edwards contributes 15 points, 11 rebounds
- Lakers struggle with shooting and lineup changes
- Doncic's injury impacts Lakers' performance
- Minnesota faces winner of Rockets-Warriors series
With this win, the Timberwolves advance to face the winner of the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors series. The Rockets avoided elimination in Game 5, setting up a crucial Game 6 as they trail 3-2. Can Minnesota maintain their momentum against a formidable opponent?
This matchup highlighted the Timberwolves’ impressive late-game execution. Despite shooting poorly from beyond the arc, Minnesota capitalized on the Lakers’ small-ball strategy, showcasing Gobert’s impact in the paint. Key developments include:
- Gobert outperformed his previous series totals, making a significant difference.
- The Lakers struggled with shooting, missing five consecutive attempts late in the game.
- LeBron James and Luka Doncic faced elimination for the second straight postseason.
As the playoffs continue, fans can look forward to the upcoming matchups, especially the pivotal Game 6 between the Rockets and Warriors. Will Minnesota’s momentum carry them further in the postseason?
