Lakers, Rockets facing elimination in NBA playoffs

The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves facing elimination, down 3-1 in their first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves despite having acquired superstar Luka Dončić to pair with LeBron James. Minnesota's dominance has been driven by their relentless attacks at the rim and breakout performances from Anthony Edwards, including a 43-point game that put the Timberwolves on the verge of advancing. The Lakers' defense has struggled, especially after trading away their top interior defender, leaving them vulnerable in the paint. Despite the daunting odds—only 13 NBA teams have ever overcome a 3-1 playoff deficit—Lakers players and coaches remain focused on a one-game-at-a-time mentality, drawing inspiration from LeBron James' historic 2016 comeback with Cleveland. Luka Dončić, who played through illness in Game 4, and Austin Reaves both emphasize that the series isn't over until four wins are secured and believe the team can still turn things around. However, oddsmakers and analysts view a Lakers comeback as highly unlikely given Minnesota's current momentum and the Lakers' defensive weaknesses.