The NBA playoff drama continued with two critical matchups that delivered contrasting outcomes for the teams involved.
Minnesota secured their place in the next round after defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 103-96, winning the series 4-1. The Timberwolves established control early, leading 31-22 after the first quarter and maintaining a comfortable 59-49 advantage at halftime.
Despite a spirited Lakers comeback in the third quarter, where they narrowed the deficit to just one point (81-80), Minnesota regrouped in the final period. The Timberwolves outscored the Lakers 22-16 in the decisive fourth quarter to seal the victory and end LeBron James' team's season.
Rudy Gobert delivered a monster performance for Minnesota with 27 points and an incredible 24 rebounds. Julius Randle contributed 23 points while Anthony Edwards recorded a near triple-double with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists.
Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 9 assists in the losing effort. Rui Hachimura added 23 points, and LeBron James finished with 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists.
According to Statbet's advanced metrics, Gobert's 24-rebound performance ranks among the top playoff rebounding games of the past decade, showcasing his exceptional impact on both ends of the court.
In the night's other matchup, Houston kept their playoff hopes alive with a dominant 131-116 victory over Golden State, reducing their series deficit to 3-2. The Rockets established control early, outscoring the Warriors 40-24 in the opening quarter and building a substantial 76-49 halftime lead.
Fred VanVleet led Houston's balanced attack with 26 points, while Klay Thompson added 25 points and 5 steals. Dillon Brooks contributed 24 points, and Alperen Sengun nearly recorded a triple-double with 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists.
Moses Moody was Golden State's top performer off the bench with 25 points and 9 rebounds, while Stephen Curry was held to just 13 points, though he did add 7 assists. The Warriors will have another opportunity to close out the series in Game 6 on their home court.
