LeBron, Lakers Disappoint NBA Fans in Loss to Edwards, Wolves amid Luka Doncic Illness

The Los Angeles Lakers faltered late on Friday, losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves by the final score of 116-104 in their first-round playoff matchup.

LeBron James and the Lakers now trail the series 2-1.

Even though the score was tied 103-103 and just under five minutes remained in the fourth quarter, Minnesota secured the victory by closing the game on a 13-1 run.

James finished with an impressive double-double despite the loss, scoring 38 points and grabbing 10 rebounds while shooting 13-of-21 from the field. He also recorded four assists, two steals and two blocks.

Luka Dončić was reportedly dealing with stomach issues during the contest and struggled to stay efficient. Dončić shot just 6-of-16 from the field and scored 17 points.

He also dished out eight assists, but committed five turnovers.

Fans weren't impressed with the performance from Los Angeles.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, as neither team took a double-digit lead through the first three quarters.

Anthony Edwards scored 29 points on 12-of-26 shooting for the Timberwolves, connecting on five threes. Jaden McDaniels also finished with 30 points, a new playoff career-high.

Minnesota scored 56 points in the paint compared to just 26 for Los Angeles.

The Lakers will now attempt to avoid falling into a 3-1 series deficit in Game 4 on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. ET.