Lakers Clash with Timberwolves Amid Star-Studded Absences
The Los Angeles Lakers are back in action, facing the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 29, 2025, in what promises to be an intriguing mid-week NBA matchup — though not for the usual reasons. This one’s less about superstar showdowns and more about resilience, depth, and opportunity, as both teams enter the game with key players sidelined.
Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. Eastern at the Target Center in Minneapolis. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN, FDSN, or SportsNet LA, and stream it through Fubo for those preferring to tune in online. For anyone hoping to see the game in person, tickets are available through StubHub.
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The Timberwolves come into the matchup with a 2–2 record, the same as the Lakers, but both sides are navigating significant injury woes. Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards is out with a hamstring injury, while Jaylen Clark remains questionable due to a calf issue. On the Lakers’ side, the situation is even tougher — LeBron James is out with a nerve issue, Luka Doncic is sidelined due to knee and finger concerns, and Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, and Adou Thiero are all unavailable. Marcus Smart and Jaxson Hayes are listed as questionable, which could leave Los Angeles with a short-handed rotation yet again.
Oddsmakers have leaned toward the Timberwolves for this one, listing them as 7.5-point favorites with a -285 moneyline. The Lakers sit as underdogs at +225, with the total points line set at 225.5, according to BetMGM.
Statistically, the matchup is closer than the betting odds suggest. Last season, the Timberwolves averaged 114.3 points per game, only slightly higher than the 112.2 points the Lakers typically allowed. Meanwhile, Los Angeles put up 113.4 points per game compared to Minnesota’s 109.3 allowed. Both teams shot well from beyond the arc last season — the Wolves at 37.7% and the Lakers at 36.6% — indicating that three-point accuracy could play a major role in this contest.
What’s interesting this time around is who steps up in the absence of the big names. Austin Reaves has been on fire lately, dropping 92 points across the last two games without LeBron and Doncic in the lineup — including a 51-point explosion against the Kings. Julius Randle, back in purple and gold, has also made his presence felt, continuing his aggressive offensive play and solid all-around contributions.
It’s rare to see a Lakers-Timberwolves game without the familiar star power, but that doesn’t mean the matchup lacks intrigue. For fans, it’s a chance to see emerging players seize the spotlight and prove their worth on national television. Whether Los Angeles can overcome their injury woes or the Wolves defend their home court, one thing’s for sure — this midweek clash will be a real test of depth and determination for both squads.
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