Timberwolves Advance Past Lakers 103-96, Gobert Dominates Playoffs

Rudy Gobert delivered a career-best performance in Game 5, scoring 27 points and grabbing 24 rebounds to help the Minnesota Timberwolves eliminate the Los Angeles Lakers from the NBA playoffs. Despite the team's historically poor shooting night, Gobert dominated the paint both offensively and defensively, anchoring the Wolves with key blocks and offensive rebounds. His presence deterred Lakers drives, disrupted their offensive scheme, and provided crucial second-chance opportunities for Minnesota. While Gobert's individual performance was pivotal, both he and analysts credited the Timberwolves' overall depth and teamwork—including contributions from players like Naz Reid, Julius Randle, and Jaden McDaniels—as major factors in the series win. The Wolves' collective effort and Gobert's leadership gave the team a defensive identity and resilience that proved too much for the Lakers. This victory marks a significant turnaround for a team that faced skepticism about the Gobert trade and its postseason prospects.