The Los Angeles Lakers’ season wrapped up prior to followers hoped, with one other early playoff exit on Wednesday night time.
The Minnesota Timberwolves despatched them packing in simply 5 video games, including one other chapter to the Lakers’ latest postseason struggles.
This marks the second straight yr the Lakers couldn’t advance previous the primary spherical, with their playoff file now standing at a regarding 2-12 throughout their final 14 matchups.
But one thing feels completely different this time round. Regardless of the disappointing end, a wave of optimism surrounds the franchise, and it facilities round their new famous person.
“It’s been nice. The best way the followers accepted me—it’s been wonderful,” Luka Doncic stated after the 96-103 Recreation 5 defeat at house. “Even the best way the neighborhood accepted me has been wonderful.”
Luka Doncic on enjoying for the Lakers and if he can see a long-term future: “Yeah. It’s been nice, truthfully. The best way the followers accepted me has been wonderful. I’m actually glad that I’m right here.” pic.twitter.com/8FxAVpDYl1
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) Could 1, 2025
The Los Angeles Lakers weren’t considered as severe championship contenders following the midseason shake up.
Their roster, unexpectedly reassembled after the blockbuster commerce that introduced Doncic to city, confirmed clear weaknesses down the stretch.
Restricted heart choices and skinny bench depth proved problematic towards the deeper Timberwolves squad.
Now consideration shifts to what many think about the true starting of the Doncic period in Los Angeles. The upcoming offseason carries monumental significance for the purple and gold.
Entrance workplace selections over the following few months will form whether or not they can construct a correct contender round their new cornerstone participant.
Since arriving in Los Angeles, Doncic has embraced his new environment each on and off the courtroom.
Although nonetheless acclimating to life as a Laker, his impression has been plain. He guided the group to a 3rd place end within the Western Convention whereas averaging a powerful 28.2 factors, 8.1 rebounds, and seven.5 assists per sport.
NEXT: Analyst Names Lakers’ Largest Priorities In The Offseason