The Lakers' play-in game Tuesday night against the decimated and distracted Minnesota Timberwolves should have been a bold first step into a bright postseason. It was, instead, a staggered stumble into the great unknown, a night requiring extra time, exhausting effort, and the overcoming of one massive mistake. An honest assessment is, the Lakers should not view this win as a coronation — from 2-10 to the playoffs, hooray! What saved the Lakers were two things, only one of which can be counted on in the future. Give the Lakers credit for taking advantage of Towns' restriction and holding the Timberwolves to 16 total points in the fourth quarter and overtime.

Source: Los Angeles Times April 12, 2023 20:17 UTC