The Los Angeles Lakers escaped Target Center with a 116-115 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night, capped by a last-second jump shot from guard Austin Reaves.
Los Angeles appeared headed for a routine win after building a 20-point cushion in the third quarter, but Minnesota surged ahead in the final seconds before Reaves’ buzzer-beater sealed the result.
LaRavia delivers career night
Forward Jake LaRavia, wearing No. 12, recorded his most productive performance since joining the Lakers. The fourth-year pro scored 27 points on 10-for-11 shooting, gathered eight rebounds, added two assists, one steal and one block in 37 minutes. Seventeen of his points came during the third quarter, igniting the Lakers’ largest lead.
LaRavia’s outburst prompted visible confusion from courtside fans and even Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, who was caught on video asking, “Who is No. 12?” LaRavia later responded online, indicating he was unconvinced Edwards truly did not recognize him.
Injury-driven opportunity
The 23-year-old has entered the starting lineup because of injuries elsewhere on the roster, taking on a “connector” role envisioned by the organization when he was acquired. Wednesday’s effort reinforced his place in the rotation as the Lakers wait for key players to heal.
Doncic nearing return
Head coach JJ Redick said Wednesday that Luka Dončić, sidelined by a contusion, remains day-to-day. Swelling has decreased, and Redick expects the All-Star guard to be available within the next “couple games,” noting improved mobility in the injured finger.
The Lakers continue their road trip later this week, while the Timberwolves look to rebound from the narrow defeat.
Source: Lakers Nation
