Doncic Struggles as Lakers Fall to Timberwolves in Playoffs
MINNEAPOLIS – Last spring, Luka Doncic led the Dallas Mavericks to a thrilling victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference finals. However, his return to Minnesota for the current NBA playoffs has not been smooth.
Doncic faced an uphill battle in Game 3 of the first round, dealing with a stomach illness as the Lakers fell to the Timberwolves 116-104. Despite playing nearly 40 minutes, Doncic recorded only 17 points on 6-for-16 shooting, along with five turnovers.
Lakers coach J.J. Redick revealed that Doncic had been unwell, describing how he was vomiting throughout the day leading up to the late-game start. "He hasn’t been feeling well for the last 24 hours. I don’t know how much he slept last night," Redick noted.
Doncic started the second half but struggled to find his rhythm. This led to several sloppy plays, including a pivotal moment where rookie Rudy Gobert stole the ball from him, sparking a fast break for the Timberwolves.
Austin Reaves, who contributed 20 points for the Lakers, acknowledged Doncic’s efforts despite the loss. “He gave everything he had tonight. We had opportunities; we just couldn’t get it done,” he said.
Postgame, Doncic was unavailable for media questions as he received treatment. The Timberwolves crowd, which had seen him dominate their defense in previous matchups, relished his struggles.
Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels did a commendable job defending Doncic, limiting his options and making it tough for him to create shots. The Wolves sought to exploit Doncic’s defensive weaknesses, especially on a night when he was clearly not at his best.
With the Lakers now trailing the series 2-1, focus turns to the next game. Coach Redick expressed hope for Doncic’s recovery, stating, “Hopefully, whatever’s going on, he feels better for Sunday.”
The coming days will be crucial not just for Doncic’s health but for the Lakers’ chances in the playoffs.
