The Lakers and Timberwolves collide as Luka Dončić eyes history and LeBron James leads L.A.’s defensive resurgence.
The Western Conference playoff race is heating up, and two of its most battle-tested teams are riding momentum into tonight’s showdown (10:30 ET, NBA TV).
Fresh off a 25-point comeback win over the West-leading Thunder, the Minnesota Timberwolves secured their largest comeback victory in over 27 years. The following night, the Los Angeles Lakers responded with a statement of their own, as Luka Dončić recorded a triple-double against his former team and LeBron James dominated late to lift L.A. past Dallas— marking their 13th win in 16 games.
With 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists against the Mavericks, Dončić has now recorded a regular-season triple-double against 29 of the NBA’s 30 teams. The only team left? The Timberwolves.
If he records one tonight, Luka will join LeBron James and Russell Westbrook as the only players to post a triple-double against every NBA team.
The moment would come on the eve of his 26th birthday, adding another milestone to a resume that already includes the second-most triple-doubles before age 26, trailing only Oscar Robertson.
Since Jan. 20, the Lakers have been the hottest team in the NBA, boasting a league-best 13-3 record. While Luka’s arrival in L.A. has drawn spotlight, it’s been the team’s defense that has fueled its surge.
Before Jan. 20: Ranked 24th in DefRtg (115.7)
Since Jan. 20: 1st in DefRtg (106.0)
Leading the charge is none other than James, who at age 40, owns the 5th-best DefRtg among players logging 30+ minutes per game in at least five outings.
“LeBron is playing at an All-NBA Defense level,” said Lakers head coach JJ Redick. “I watch it every night … there’s no conservation of energy at that end of the floor.”
Despite L.A.’s recent dominance, the Wolves have had their number this season. In their last two meetings, Minnesota’s defense stifled the Lakers, holding them under 90 points in back-to-back wins.
Now, sitting just a half-game back of the Clippers for the final guaranteed playoff spot in the West, can the Wolves slow down the surging Lakers again? Or will Luka and LeBron keep the Lake Show rolling?
