Lakers Waste LeBron’s Historic Night

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 Lakers Waste LeBron’s Historic Night and Fall to Timberwolves in Game 3

Not even LeBron James’ 38 points and 10 rebounds could save the Los Angeles Lakers  from yet another defeat at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves . The team from Minneapolis secured a 116-104 win in Game 3, took a 2-1 series lead, and made it clear they’re ready to make some serious noise in the playoffs.

McDaniels, the Big Surprise

Jaden McDaniels was the unexpected star of the game. The forward scored 30 points, his best playoff performance so far, and did it with aggression and accuracy—especially when attacking the rim. In fact, 24 of his points came in the paint, setting a franchise postseason record.

What’s most impressive is his evolution. Not long ago, he was seen as just a defender. Now, he’s combining elite defense with an increasingly dangerous offensive game. With this version of McDaniels, along with Edwards and Randle, the Wolves might just have found an unexpected “Big 3.”

For bettors, offensive breakouts like this can shift the betting landscape—NBA 1st Half Lines , when a player like that emerges, can quickly swing in their favor.

A Devastating Finish from the Timberwolves

The Lakers managed to tie the game 103-103 with just over 4 minutes left on the clock, but from there, they were completely outplayed. Minnesota closed on a 13-1 run, fueled by big plays from Edwards, McDaniels, and Naz Reid, who added 11 valuable points off the bench.

The Timberwolves outscored the Lakers 62-46 in the second half, showing more depth, energy, and composure in the game’s decisive moments. With finishes like this, NBA 2nd Half Lines  start to tilt more and more in Minnesota’s favor when they play at home.

Lakers’ Interior Defense Is Costing Them

Since trading away Anthony Davis, the Lakers have struggled in the paint. Their attempt to shore things up with Mark Williams fell apart due to a failed physical, and now they’re paying the price. The Wolves scored 56 points in the paint, with McDaniels and Randle (22 points, 9-for-10 from the free-throw line) relentlessly attacking the rim.

Jaxson Hayes, the only available center, played just 9 minutes. The rest of the time, Minnesota did whatever they wanted near the basket.

If the Lakers don’t fix this, NBA Odds don’t offer many reasons to trust them—especially heading into Game 4, where they risk falling into a 3-1 hole.

Time to Bet on the Wolves?

With Edwards, Randle, and a red-hot McDaniels, the Timberwolves are showing their best version right when it matters most. If they keep up this intensity and continue to exploit the Lakers’ defensive flaws, the NBA 1st Half Lines   give strong signs to those considering a bet on Minnesota.