Gilbert Arenas backs LeBron James for game 2 redemption after Los Angeles Lakers’ blowout loss to Minnesota Timberwolves

After a tough defeat in Game 1 to the Minnesota Timberwolves, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are determined to turn things around. Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas expects a big showing from James in Game 2. With the stakes high in this playoff matchup, all eyes will be on the Lakers' response. Can LeBron lead them to a comeback?
The Los Angeles Lakers were dealt a harsh blow in Game 1 of their playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing 117-95. Yet, former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas is expecting a strong comeback from LeBron James in Game 2. He predicts that James will score between 35 and 40 points, which could help the Lakers even things up before the series heads to Minnesota.
The Lakers faced challenges on both sides of the court in Game 1. LeBron James went scoreless in the first quarter for the first time ever in the playoffs, finishing with 19 points on 8-of-18 shooting. Luka Dončić shone with 37 points but also had five turnovers. The Lakers were dominated in fast-break points, 25-6, and their bench was outscored 43-13, revealing issues with their depth and transition defense.
The Timberwolves took advantage of the Lakers' defensive mistakes, hitting 50% of their three-pointers and shooting 51.2% overall. Jaden McDaniels was the standout for Minnesota, scoring 25 points and grabbing nine rebounds, while Naz Reid came off the bench to add 23 points. Anthony Edwards also had a solid game with 22 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists, highlighting the Timberwolves' well-rounded offense.
Gilbert Arenas criticized the officiating in Game 1, posting a photo of LeBron James kneeling before a referee with the caption, "The refs got us on one knee begging for calls! Don't worry, Lakers in 5! LeBron is about to have 35-40 next game 🗣️ on my momma.”.

Arenas believes in James because he has a track record of stepping up his game when it matters most. LeBron James recognized that the team needs to make some changes, saying, "Sometimes, it takes a quarter, two quarters, a full game to get used to playoff basketball again.
He was sure that the Lakers would be "more than ready" for Game 2, which is set to take place on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM PDT (Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 7:30 AM IST) at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
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The Lakers are set on leveling the series before it shifts to Minnesota for Games 3 and 4. With Gilbert Arenas throwing out a confident prediction and LeBron James ready to lead, all attention will be on the Lakers to see if they can bounce back and take control of this playoff series.