Jaden McDaniels Shines as Wolves Defeat Lakers 116-104 to Seize Series Lead

Wolves Top Lakers 116-104 in Game 3 to Take Series Lead Behind Both-Ways Standout Jaden McDaniels
The Minnesota Timberwolves seized the momentum in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals with a 116-104 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, largely due to the phenomenal performance of rising star Jaden McDaniels. The win gives Minnesota a 2-1 lead in the series and places the Lakers in a must-win situation as the two teams head toward Game 4.
McDaniels's energy on both ends of the floor lifted the Timberwolves when they needed it most, making it a night marked by hustle, determination, and an unexpected hero. While superstar Anthony Edwards and veteran Karl-Anthony Towns provided their usual scoring punch, it was McDaniels' two-way brilliance that set the tone early and helped the Wolves maintain their grip late.
First-Half Surge Sets the Tone
Minnesota quickly put its will into action. Because of their efficient ball movement and suffocating defense, they quickly took the lead. McDaniels was instrumental from the outset, guarding LeBron James with an intensity rarely seen even among seasoned defenders. He made two steals in the beginning and changed several shots, which upset the Lakers' offensive rhythm. McDaniels displayed impressive poise on offense. He knocked down timely three-pointers and attacked the basket with confidence, racking up 12 points in the first half alone. The Timberwolves took advantage of the Lakers' turnovers and turned them into easy transition buckets to take a 62-50 lead at halftime. Meanwhile, the Lakers struggled to find a consistent rhythm. Although Anthony Davis posted solid numbers with 18 first-half points, much of his scoring came in isolation sets, and the lack of ball movement made it easier for Minnesota to set its defense.
The Defensive Masterclass of McDaniels McDaniels' defense against LeBron James, who scored 21 points but missed 23 shots to do so, may have been the night's most impressive aspect. To stay ahead of LeBron, McDaniels used his length and foot speed to force difficult jumpers and contested drives. His discipline — rarely biting on pump fakes and contesting without fouling — was a masterclass in perimeter defense.
Chris Finch, the head coach of the Timberwolves, said after the game, "He’s just relentless." "He takes pride in defending the best players, and tonight he was a huge part of why we were able to keep them in check."
Beyond the numbers, McDaniels had an impact on his teammates' motivation. Every defensive stop, every contested rebound, every fast-break finish seemed to inject the Timberwolves with more belief that they could not just hang with the Lakers — they could beat them.
Big Nights from the Stars
While McDaniels rightfully grabbed the headlines, Minnesota's stars also delivered. Anthony Edwards led all scorers with 32 points, showcasing his typical blend of athleticism and finesse. Karl-Anthony Towns added 24 points and 11 rebounds, dominating his matchups in the paint and stretching the floor with his shooting.
D'Angelo Russell, facing his former team, chipped in with 17 points and seven assists, orchestrating the Timberwolves' offense with poise and creativity. His partnership with Edwards in the backcourt continues to develop into a potent weapon for Minnesota. For the Lakers, Davis finished with 29 points and 14 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough. D'Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura struggled, combining for just 15 points on ineffective shooting, despite Austin Reaves' solid performance of 18 points. The Lakers' bench, a strength earlier in the playoffs, was thoroughly outplayed, contributing only 18 points compared to Minnesota's 34.
Wolves' Physicality and Focus Make the Difference
In Game 3, Minnesota's focus and physicality stood out the most. They won the rebounding battle 48-41 and scored 20 second-chance points compared to the Lakers’ 11. Time and again, they hustled for loose balls and refused to be outhustled, outworking the Lakers in crucial moments.
Chris Finch emphasized the need to match the Lakers’ physicality before the game, and his players responded. "We knew coming in that if we didn’t bring the fight to them, they would steamroll us," said Edwards after the game. "We punched first tonight, and we kept punching." Looking Ahead
Game 4 now looms as a must-win for the Lakers. It would be difficult to recover from a 3-1 series deficit, especially in the face of a Timberwolves team that is growing in confidence with each playoff game. The Lakers will need more consistent production from their role players and a more efficient night from LeBron James if they are to even the series. Meanwhile, Minnesota must stay disciplined and not let the pressure of the moment affect their approach.
As for Jaden McDaniels, his breakout performance in Game 3 could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his career — from a promising young role player to a legitimate playoff star.
If he continues playing at this level, the Timberwolves might just be poised to make a deep and surprising run.