Anthony Edwards stars with 43 points as Timberwolves top Lakers; Knicks, Celtics, and Pacers grab pivotal NBA playoff wins.
Timberwolves Edge Lakers 116-113 to Take 3-1 Series Lead
Anthony Edwards erupted for 43 points, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a narrow 116-113 win over the Los Angeles Lakers at the Target Center. Edwards added nine rebounds and six assists, helping the Wolves overcome a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit.
Julius Randle chipped in 25 points, and Jaden McDaniels posted a double-double (16 points, 11 rebounds) to lift Minnesota. Despite Luka Dončić’s 38-point effort and LeBron James’ double-double (27 points, 12 rebounds), the Lakers ran out of steam after coach JJ Redick’s controversial decision to play the same five players the entire second half.
Austin Reaves had a shot to tie it at the buzzer, but his 3-pointer missed, putting the Lakers on the brink of elimination.
Knicks Outlast Pistons 94-93 in a Nail-Biter
Jalen Brunson scored 32 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter after tweaking his ankle, as the New York Knicks edged the Detroit Pistons 94-93. Karl-Anthony Towns hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 47 seconds left to seal the win.
Detroit had a chance to steal the game, but a controversial no-call on Josh Hart’s collision with Tim Hardaway Jr. at the buzzer left Pistons fans frustrated. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 25 points, but the loss tied an NBA record with nine consecutive home playoff defeats.
Celtics Defeat Magic 107-98 to Move Within One Win of Advancing
The Boston Celtics took control of their series with a 107-98 win over the Orlando Magic. Jayson Tatum dominated with 37 points and 14 rebounds, while Jaylen Brown (21 points, 11 rebounds), Kristaps Porziņģis (19 points), and Derrick White (18 points) provided strong support.
Boston was nearly perfect from the free-throw line, sinking 30 of 32 attempts. Orlando’s Paolo Banchero (31 points) and Franz Wagner (24 points) tried to rally the Magic, but the Celtics’ composure down the stretch made the difference.
Pacers Crush Bucks 129-103 to Take Commanding 3-1 Lead
Indiana put on an offensive clinic, shooting over 60% from the field to hammer the Milwaukee Bucks 129-103. Myles Turner led eight Pacers in double figures with 23 points and four blocks.
Tyrese Haliburton had 17 points, 15 assists, and eight rebounds in a dominant all-around performance, while Andrew Nembhard scored 20 points.
Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo fought hard with 28 points and 15 rebounds, but the loss was compounded by a major scare — Damian Lillard exited in the first quarter with a lower leg injury that could sideline him long-term.
For real-time sports news, expert analysis, and exclusive updates, visit DanredSports.com!