The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 116-113 at home in Game 3 of the Western Conference first round of the 2024-2025 NBA Playoffs. The Timberwolves took a 3-1 lead in the series, needing just one more win to advance.
It was a very close game with the score staying close. In the end, the Timberwolves were more consistent in the final key moments and were able to pull out the win.
Austin Reeves Postgame Interview
Lakers guard Austin Reeves spoke to the media after the game. He shared his thoughts on the outcome of the game and expressed his confidence in the future of the team.
When asked by a reporter why the Lakers lost the game, Reeves replied, “It’s really simple, it’s that the other team made another turn offensively. In the final moments, they were more focused and had more intensity. So they won.”
Reeves has not given up hope on the current 3-1 deficit. He said, “As long as we can still put on our cleats and go to the game, that means it’s not over. The sun will come up tomorrow and we still have games to play. All we have to do is stay focused on the game, keep the intensity up and take it one game at a time.
Reaves playoff performance stats
So far, Reaves has averaged 39 minutes per game through the first four games of this series. His average stats are:
- Scoring: 17.3 ppg – Rebounds: 5.5 .
- Assists: 4 .
- Steals: 0.3 .
- Caps: 0.8 .
- Turnovers: 2 .
- Fouls: 3.5 .
- Shooting Percentage: 42.4 Percent .
- Three Point Percentage: 35.1 Percent .
- Free Throw Percentage: 85.7 Percent .
In Game 4 of the series, Reeves played 35:07. He made six of 14 shots and five of 12 three-pointers for 17 points, seven rebounds, four assists, one steal and two turnovers. He also had one turnover and five fouls for a plus-minus of +5.
Performance Analysis: Inconsistent play, needs to improve
Based on his performance so far, Reaves hasn’t played particularly well in the playoffs. Although he has some statistical production, there is still room for improvement in scoring, organization, and defense. His overall form has slipped compared to the regular season.
As the Lakers’ “third core” player, Reeves should have taken on more responsibility to help James and other starters share the pressure. So far, however, he has yet to make a significant impact.
Future Outlook: Can he break out in big games?
If Reeves can’t find his form soon, the Lakers will be in for a very tough game. There will be more pressure on James and the other stars, and trying to come back from a 3-1 deficit to beat an opponent as formidable as the Timberwolves will be nearly impossible.
The next game, G5, will be a do-or-die battle. If the Lakers lose, they will be eliminated. People will be watching to see if Reeves can step up and make a surprising play when it counts.
Summary
The Lakers currently trail the Timberwolves 3-1 and are in danger of being eliminated. Despite the unfavorable situation, the players remain confident, especially Austin Reeves, who hopes to help the team turn the tide by playing from behind. The next game will decide the fate of the team, and the Lakers will need every player to give their best, especially the important ones like Reeves, who must perform at a higher level.
