The 2025 NBA playoffs have delivered jaw-dropping moments, thrilling fans and shaking up the bracket. A headline-grabbing result saw the Minnesota Timberwolves eliminate the Los Angeles Lakers in a high-stakes showdown. From historic performances to strategic surprises, this postseason has been full of drama and stories to remember.

Timberwolves Eliminate Lakers: Gobert’s Career Game

In a must-win Game 5 for the Lakers, the Timberwolves delivered a commanding performance, closing out the series 4-1. Rudy Gobert posted a playoff career-high line, notching 27 points and 24 rebounds, overwhelming a Lakers squad that never found answers in the paint. Gobert’s dominance was especially impressive considering Minnesota’s struggles shooting from deep, converting only 7 of 47 three-point attempts.

For more on how Gobert led the Timberwolves past the Lakers and analysis of the Lakers’ disappointing exit, read the full breakdown on Yahoo Sports.

Team Effort and Balanced Attack

What set the Timberwolves apart in this series was their depth and balance. Different players stepped up every night. Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle provided clutch playmaking and scoring. The Wolves out-rebounded, outscored, and thoroughly out-hustled their opponents, with their defense holding Los Angeles under 100 points in three of five games.

Notably, the Timberwolves clinched the series despite a cold shooting performance from Edwards, who missed all 11 of his three-point attempts in Game 5. Instead, the team leaned on rebounding, second-chance points, and stifling defense. The consistent playmaking of Edwards, leading the team in assists throughout the victories, has made a key difference.

For more series statistics, highlights, and what’s next for Minnesota as they await their next opponent, visit the official NBA.com series recap.

How the Lakers Fell Short

Much was expected from the Lakers after trading for Luka Dončić to pair with LeBron James, but depth issues were exposed. Fatigue and limited adjustments left them trailing late in games. Injuries and a lack of frontcourt presence became a critical hurdle, with the Lakers going with small lineups that Gobert relentlessly exploited.

Dončić still provided clutch moments, finishing with 28 points in their final game. But the Wolves’ defense locked things down in the fourth quarter, holding the Lakers to just 16 points and sealing their advancement. The loss signals an uncertain summer ahead for Los Angeles.

Read exclusive insights and a behind-the-scenes look at the Timberwolves’ mindset in the in-depth feature from The Athletic.

Other NBA Playoffs Highlights

The NBA playoffs action doesn’t stop with Minnesota’s big win. The Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets continue their battle, with the Warriors seeking closure and Houston forcing a pivotal Game 6. The Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks are also vying to advance, while the Detroit Pistons fight to avoid elimination.

Rookie standouts and veteran stars alike are making their mark. Amen Thompson’s all-around brilliance for Houston and Jamal Murray’s 43-point outburst for Denver are just some of the notable performances turning heads across the basketball world.

What’s Next in the 2025 NBA Playoffs?

With the Timberwolves advancing, their opponent will depend on the outcome of the Warriors-Rockets series. Expect more fierce competition, highlight-reel plays, and strategic battles as the quest for the championship intensifies. Each round of the NBA playoffs promises fresh stories and rising stars.

Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t miss additional coverage of the postseason’s biggest moments. The excitement of the NBA playoffs is just heating up.