Lakers Stumble in Game 1 Loss to Timberwolves: Fans Turn to Magic Johnson for Critique
In a lackluster performance Saturday night, the Los Angeles Lakers suffered their first playoff loss at home to the Minnesota Timberwolves, 117-95. The defeat puts them behind 0-1 in their playoff series.
🐺 Timberwolves win Game 1 on the Lakers’ home floor!
Post-Game Reactions: Magic Johnson Weighs In
Former Lakers legend Magic Johnson took to social media to voice his displeasure with the Lakers’ performance. His post, which garnered over 2,800 likes in two hours, read:
Tonight was one of the Lakers worst performances this season. They were flat, had no energy, and they played like it was a regular season game.
Second Quarter Woes Cost Lakers
The Lakers found themselves in a deep hole after the second quarter, trailing 66-45. Despite a late push in the third quarter, they were unable to make the game competitive.
Johnson Critical of Coach JJ Redick’s Strategies
Magic Johnson also had harsh words for Lakers head coach JJ Redick: “Coach JJ Redick did a great job all season but he didn’t do a good job for Game 1. The Lakers stood around on offense, played too much one-on-one basketball, and he didn’t make any necessary adjustments.
Coach JJ Redick did a great job all season but he didn’t do a good job for Game 1. The Lakers stood around on offense, played too much one-on-one basketball, and he didn’t make any necessary adjustments.
Fan Reactions Split on Coach’s Performance
- @Gibbo_2010: “JJ looked like a podcast host, not a playoff coach. Let’s hope Game 2 comes with adjustments, not monologues.”
- @JackRyan2324: “Don’t agree with this. He did what he could. The TWolves made the most 3’s in playoff franchise history for 1 game. They shot the lights out. There’s no adjustment for that.”
- @DimitryManzano: “Why you gotta call Coach out like that?”
- @stevesolisphoto: “Lakers definitely needed AD tonight.”
Offensive and Defensive Struggles
The Lakers struggled on both ends of the court. They shot just 39.8% from the field, while allowing the Timberwolves to shoot 51.2% overall and 50.0% from three-point range.
Game 2: Lakers Look to Bounce Back at Home
Game 2 of the series will be on Tuesday night, back in Los Angeles. The Lakers will look to even up the series and learn from their mistakes in Game 1.
FAQs
- What was the final score?
- 117-95 in favor of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
- When is Game 2?
- Tuesday night, back in Los Angeles.
- What were the Lakers’ shooting percentages?
- 39.8% from the field
Final Thoughts: Lakers Must Regroup
The Lakers’ loss in Game 1 was a wake-up call, but they still have plenty of time to turn things around. With a crucial Game 2 upcoming, they must regroup and play with the desperation and intensity that playoff basketball demands.
Join the conversation on @247Sports and let us know what you think the Lakers need to do to bounce back!