PREVIEW: The Lakers-Timberwolves first-round series pits LeBron James and Luka Dončić against last year's Western Conference finalists in what promises to be a thrilling matchup. Minnesota enters the playoffs as one of the league's hottest teams, having won 17 of their last 21 games, while leveraging their high-frequency three-point shooting offense (ranked 6th with 45.5% of attempts coming from deep) and stingy perimeter defense that limits opponent three-point attempts. Anthony Edwards, who led the NBA in three-pointers made this season, will look to overcome a Lakers defense that ranks 5th in defending against quality three-point shots, though Minnesota's eighth-ranked spacing and pick-and-roll frequency could create opportunities. The series features an intriguing rematch element, as Dončić eliminated the Timberwolves in last year's Western Conference Finals while playing for Dallas. Los Angeles secured the third seed with a 50-32 record and brings a contrasting style, emphasizing their league-leading free throw rate and transition efficiency. The Lakers' inside presence and rim-attacking capability (ranked 2nd in efficiency) will be tested against Minnesota's disciplined defense, while their own vulnerability to high-quality three-point shots (ranked 24th defensively) could be exploited by the Wolves' perimeter shooting. JJ Redick faces his first playoff challenge as head coach with a Lakers squad that went 31-10 at home but has only played 21 games with their superstar duo intact since the midseason blockbuster trade for Dončić. Though the Lakers hold home-court advantage with Game 1 set for Crypto.com Arena, Minnesota's late-season surge and the uncertainty surrounding Los Angeles' hastily constructed roster make this one of the most compelling first-round matchups.