Timberwolves Send Three-Word Message After Eliminating Lakers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Madz Dizon | Last updated May 1, 2025 2:26 AM ET

The Minnesota Timberwolves ended the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff hopes Wednesday night and followed it up with a bold message.

The Timberwolves closed out the Lakers in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series, winning 103–96. With the victory, the Timberwolves will advance to the second round and make franchise history by winning a playoff round in back-to-back seasons.

However, the Timberwolves didn’t just walk away with the win—they sent a message.

On Instagram, the Timberwolves shared a postgame photo dump featuring players from both teams sharing handshakes and hugs.

“Great series, Lakers,” they wrote.

“Respect,” the Lakers’ official account replied with a handshake emoji.

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Rudy Gobert led the way with a playoff career-high 27 points and 24 rebounds, dominating the Lakers, who went small by choice. Julius Randle added 23 points, five rebounds and four assists. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards chipped in with 15 points, 11 rebounds and and eight assists..

The series featured several dramatic moments. In Game 5, Luka Doncic left the court briefly before halftime after landing awkwardly from a hard foul. He returned in the third quarter and led the Lakers with 28 points, nine assists and seven rebounds. LeBron James added 22 points but limped off the court in the fourth quarter after a fall, returning minutes later to finish the game.

The Timberwolves will now face either the Golden State Warriors or the Houston Rockets in the Western Conference semifinals. The Warriors led that series 3–2.

Minnesota’s bold but respectful message to the Lakers wasn’t just sportsmanship—it was a signal that the Timberwolves aren’t just here to compete. They’re here to win.

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

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