As basketball fans wake up with the question, did the Lakers win last night?, the answer may disappoint Lakers supporters. The Los Angeles Lakers' season came to a dramatic end after a hard-fought playoff battle with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Timberwolves Clinch Series Over Lakers

Last night’s game was decisive. The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Lakers 103-96, securing a 4-1 series win. This victory means the Timberwolves move on to the Western Conference Semifinals for the second consecutive season. For the Lakers, who entered the playoffs with high hopes after recent roster additions, the loss marks a frustrating early exit.

Rudy Gobert led the Timberwolves with a remarkable performance, notching 27 points and 24 rebounds. His dominance inside proved too much for the Lakers, helping Minnesota overcome even a cold shooting night from beyond the arc. Anthony Edwards, though struggling with his three-point shot, contributed energy and defense throughout the contest. For a detailed breakdown of Gobert's impact and the Timberwolves' mindset, read ESPN’s comprehensive recap of the game.

What Went Wrong for the Lakers?

Despite big expectations and a star-studded roster—including LeBron James and Luka Doncic—the Lakers couldn’t capitalize on their home-court advantage. Missed defensive assignments and the inability to contain Gobert in the paint turned out to be major factors. The Lakers’ perimeter shooting also faltered at crucial moments, while Minnesota embraced the 'underdog' role and out-fought the favorites in key stretches.

Timberwolves Make History

With the series win, the Timberwolves achieved back-to-back First Round victories for the first time in franchise history. Their resilience was on display as they stuck to their game plan even when their shots weren’t falling. According to the official Timberwolves news release, the team is gearing up for the semifinals and already has fans excited for more home games at Target Center.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

The next step for the Timberwolves is clear—they await the outcome of the battle between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets. Their preparation and confidence are at all-time highs, especially after eliminating a strong Lakers squad. For a closer look at Minnesota’s performance and who they might prefer in the next round, check out this in-depth analysis on The Athletic.

For the Lakers, questions now turn to the offseason. Fans are left wondering what changes will come and how the team can regroup after another disappointing playoff run. The focus keyword "did the Lakers win last night" reflects the curiosity and investment of a global fanbase waiting for their team to reclaim championship form.

Conclusion

So, did the Lakers win last night? Unfortunately for Lakers Nation, the answer is no. The Timberwolves outperformed the Lakers to earn their place in the Western Conference Semifinals. As one season ends, another story begins—both teams now face critical decisions, but for now, Minnesota basks in a victory fueled by determination and teamwork.

Stay tuned for further updates as the NBA Playoffs continue to deliver upsets, emotion, and unforgettable moments.