When the Los Angeles Lakers traded for Luka Doncic in February, there were high hopes that they would be able to contend for the NBA championship. Fast forward three months, however, and the Purple and Gold were sent packing in the first round of the playoffs.
The Minnesota Timberwolves needed only five games to end the series, with the Lakers unable to counter their opponents’ size and scoring. In Game 5, in particular, Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle took advantage of L.A.’s lack of frontcourt depth and proceeded to combine for 50 points and 29 rebounds.
Luka Doncic tallied 28 points, seven rebounds and nine assists, but he shot just 7-of-18 from the field as the Lakers struggled offensively as a team. LeBron James finished with 22 points on 9-of-21 shooting, but he had the worst plus-minus rating in the game with -14.
Following their 4-1 series loss and playoffs exit, the Lakers took to social media to send a message to their fan base.
While it’s a heartbreaking end to their season, the Purple and Gold showed their appreciation to those who supported and cheered for them throughout the year.
“Here’s to the best fans in the world,” the Lakers wrote.
It remains to be seen what’s next for the Lakers, but the Timberwolves series certainly highlighted the glaring needs that they must address if they hope to contend for a championship.
Aside from their need for a starting-caliber center, the Lakers can also use improvements on the defensive end.
For now, though, the Lakers will have to watch the rest of the postseason at home.
Related: Magic Johnson Assigns Blame for Lakers’ Elimination