Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

Lakers Players React as Jake LaRavia Takes a Dig at Timberwolves

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Oct 31, 2025 7:00 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers entered Wednesday’s matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves undermanned yet determined to extend their early-season momentum. Without LeBron James, Luka Doncic and several veterans, head coach JJ Redick relied on his younger rotation to keep the offense moving.

Austin Reaves took command as the primary playmaker, while Jake LaRavia, who joined the Lakers this offseason, emerged as one of the night’s biggest surprises. In 37 minutes, LaRavia scored 27 points on 10-of-11 shooting, including 5-of-6 from deep, along with eight rebounds, two assists, and a block. His performance fueled Los Angeles to a narrow 116-115 win sealed by Reaves’ buzzer-beating jumper. The Lakers improved to 3-2 with the victory and proved that their bench depth may be more reliable than many expected.

Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12).Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

One of the game’s most viral moments came in the fourth quarter, when a Timberwolves fan yelled, “Who is number 12,” a taunt targeted at LaRavia’s jersey number as Timberwolves forward Julius Randle shot a free throw. The comment quickly circulated on social media, amplified by cameras catching a reaction from Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards.

After the win, LaRavia capitalized on the moment by posting photos from the game on Instagram with the caption, “who’s number 12‍♂️.”

Lakers teammates immediately jumped into the comments section in support.

“My brotha,” wrote Austin Reaves, who finished the night with a double-double.

Jared Vanderbilt added, “Bet they know now.”

“You went crazy gang keep going,” said Gabe Vincent, who missed the game due to injury.

Christian Koloko replied, “That’s what I’m saying.”

“Hooper,” Adou Thiero remarked.

“like datttt,” Jaxson Hayes wrote.

The post also drew reaction from his wife, Taja, while superstar guard Doncic and Bronny James simply left a like.

LaRavia was drafted 19th overall by the Timberwolves in 2022 before being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies on draft night. He spent two seasons splitting time between Memphis and its G League affiliate before a brief stint with the Sacramento Kings. After the Kings declined to extend him, he signed a two-year, $12 million fully guaranteed deal with the Lakers in July, viewing Los Angeles as an opportunity to reset his career.

The Lakers have struggled with consistency from their second unit, but LaRavia’s showing against the team who drafted him suggests he could be part of the solution. For those still wondering who number 12 is, now they know him.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: