LeBron James Struggles as Lakers Suffer Blowout Loss to Timberwolves
The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a decisive 109-80 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday, marking their lowest-scoring game of the season. LeBron James managed only 10 points, the fewest he has scored this season, though he extended his NBA record streak of double-digit games to 1,243 by hitting two free throws in the fourth quarter. His scoring struggles, combined with the team’s lack of offensive energy, raised questions about his health, as cameras caught him flexing his hand late in the game.
Anthony Davis contributed a double-double with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists, while D’Angelo Russell led the Lakers with 20 points on efficient shooting from beyond the arc. However, the rest of the team struggled offensively, with Rui Hachimura matching James’ 10 points and poor shooting performances from others, including Dalton Knecht. The Lakers shot a dismal 19% from three-point range and looked fatigued, playing the second night of back-to-back games after narrowly beating the Utah Jazz on Sunday.
The Timberwolves, coming off two days of rest, capitalized on the Lakers’ lack of energy, though they didn’t fully dominate until late in the game. Rudy Gobert’s breakaway dunk early in the fourth quarter extended Minnesota’s lead to 20, effectively sealing the outcome. Gobert finished with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Julius Randle led the team with 18 points. Minnesota’s bench was the standout, contributing 54 points, with Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker each scoring 15.
The Timberwolves also outperformed the Lakers from beyond the arc, shooting 43% compared to the Lakers’ 19%. Mike Conley and Donte DiVincenzo each contributed solid three-point shooting for Minnesota. This disparity in shooting efficiency, combined with a deeper bench performance, proved decisive in the win.
This was the Lakers’ 21st game of the season and reflected recurring struggles with consistency and energy, particularly in back-to-back games. The loss leaves them with questions to address as they prepare to face the Miami Heat on Wednesday. For the Timberwolves, the victory adds momentum as they begin a three-game road trip against the Los Angeles Clippers on the same day.
While James’ streak of double-digit scoring continues, his recent performances and visible discomfort suggest the need for close monitoring of his health and workload as the season progresses. The Lakers will need to find answers quickly if they hope to recover from this lackluster showing.
