Doncic Scores 49 as Lakers Beat Timberwolves 128-110

Luka Doncic put on a spectacular show, scoring 32 of his 49 points in the first half as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 128-110 on Friday. In addition to his scoring, Doncic grabbed 11 rebounds and dished out eight assists, setting the tone for the Lakers’ offensive dominance throughout the game.

Austin Reaves played a key role for the Lakers with 25 points and 11 assists, while Rui Hachimura added 23 points. Deandre Ayton contributed 15 points, helping the Lakers maintain a balanced attack. Los Angeles shot 59.2% overall, far outpacing the Timberwolves’ 46.6% shooting for the game.

Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 31 points, and Julius Randle added 26 points along with nine rebounds. However, the Timberwolves struggled to contain the Lakers, especially in the second quarter when Los Angeles shot an impressive 64.7% and built a decisive 32-point quarter that shifted momentum firmly in their favor.

The first quarter was full of scoring with minimal defense from either team. The Timberwolves led 40-36 early, powered by 14 points from Edwards. Doncic countered with 23 points in the opening quarter, asserting himself in the absence of LeBron James, who was resting. Lakers big men Maxi Kleber and Jaxson Hayes were also unavailable due to injury.

Los Angeles ended the first half on a 14-4 run, taking a 68-63 lead at halftime. The Lakers shot 60% in the first half, while Minnesota managed 50%, giving the home team a clear edge going into the locker room.

In the third quarter, the Lakers went on a 9-4 run, taking their first double-digit lead at 97-86 on a driving layup from Reaves. Los Angeles maintained momentum, leading 108-94 entering the final quarter, effectively putting the game out of reach for Minnesota.

With just over three minutes remaining, Doncic had an opportunity to reach 50 points but missed one of two free throws and did not return to the court. Nonetheless, his 49-point performance was the highlight of the game and set a strong tone for the Lakers early in the season.

The Lakers demonstrated strong offensive execution and teamwork, compensating for missing key players. Minnesota, now 1-1 on their season-opening road trip, will face the Eastern Conference champion Indiana Pacers in their home opener on Sunday. Both teams are expected to refine their strategies as the season progresses.