When it comes to playoff matchups, Luka Dončić against the Minnesota Timberwolves seemed like a safe bet. Last year, the Dallas Mavericks faced off against Minnesota, and the outcome was unfavorable for the Timberwolves. The Mavericks sent them packing after a decisive five-game series, with Dončić averaging an impressive 32.4 points. In a memorable moment, he outmaneuvered Rudy Gobert, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, to sink a game-winning 3-pointer during Game 2. Dončić played a pivotal role in keeping Minnesota out of the NBA Finals last season. Therefore, expectations were high for him to deliver a similar performance this year. However, the reality was surprisingly different.
In Saturday's Game 1, Dončić did score a commendable 37 points; however, his new team, the Los Angeles Lakers, suffered a significant defeat, losing 117-95. To understand this disappointing result, one must consider the absence of two crucial teammates Dončić relied on during last postseason: Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford. In the Western Conference Finals last year, Dončić recorded a staggering 41 assists, with over half (22) directed to his two centers. Notably, 10 of those assists came from lobs, a standout element of Dončić's playmaking repertoire.
Fast forward to the current season, and the only center consistently playing for the Lakers is Jaxson Hayes, who unfortunately does not match the caliber of Gafford or Lively. In Game 1, Hayes played only eight minutes, during which the Lakers lost by 11 points. Without a reliable center on the floor, Dončić managed just one assist, marking only the second time in his playoff career he has been limited to such a low figure. This stark contrast highlights how the Lakers’ roster changes have impacted their playoff performance.
The Lakers’ need for a reliable big man was apparent in Game 1. They were out-rebounded 42-33 during competitive play and surrendered 23 second-chance points, a statistic that would have ranked last in the league if considered over an entire season. Furthermore, they were outscored in the paint 42-30 before garbage time. Timberwolves player Jaden McDaniels, who scored 25 points, pointed out the absence of a rim protector when Hayes was off the court, noting that he felt like the tallest player on the floor.
Dončić’s inability to distribute the ball effectively reflects the Lakers' size deficiencies. The Timberwolves not only outperformed the Lakers in assists but also recorded nearly double the number, with 29 compared to the Lakers’ 15. While Minnesota's exceptional 3-point shooting contributed to their success, with a 50% shooting rate, the Lakers also performed well, making 15 triples. However, their shooting prowess alone was not enough to secure a victory, especially given their reliance on shot creation without proper support in the paint.
The Lakers are built to exploit mismatches and overwhelm opponents with their star players, including LeBron James and Austin Reaves. In previous seasons, Dončić efficiently created advantages through his ability to draw defenses, but the current roster lacks the necessary big man to facilitate that dynamic. Without a reliable center, Dončić's game becomes more predictable, limiting his ability to exploit defenses effectively. This lack of variation in his passing options hampers the Lakers’ overall offensive strategy.
As the Lakers navigate this playoff season, they face the daunting task of addressing their roster deficiencies. While James has been a highly effective pick-and-roll player in the past, the Lakers have yet to establish a strong connection between Dončić and James. The absence of a reliable center also complicates matters, as teams can focus on defending against Dončić without fear of a significant threat from the paint.
Moving forward, the Lakers must consider potential solutions to these challenges. Acquiring a center could be a straightforward fix, but the complexities of team chemistry and player health will also play a role in their future success. As Dončić faces the Timberwolves with a vastly different supporting cast than last season, he and his teammates will need to devise a new game plan to compete effectively.
In conclusion, the Lakers' playoff journey is fraught with challenges that stem from their current roster configurations. With two of the smartest players in NBA history in Dončić and James, along with the creative adjustments made by Reaves, the team has the potential to find solutions. However, the need for a more conventional approach will be crucial in addressing their current shortcomings against formidable opponents like the Timberwolves. The path to victory will require not only strategic adjustments but also a commitment to enhancing the team’s overall performance.
