The Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs after the Minnesota Timberwolves exploited all of their biggest weaknesses.

Los Angeles Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka acknowledged need for center after trading Anthony Davis and 2024–25 NBA playoff elimination. The Los Angeles Lakers saw their 2024–25 season come to a disappointing end with a 103–96 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of their first-round NBA playoff series,

The Lakers' lack of a true center was exploited throughout the series, particularly in Wednesday's matchup. Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert, who had not scored more than six points or secured more than 10 rebounds prior to Game 5, dominated with 27 points and 24 boards to send Minnesota to the next round.