Lakers Sweep Timberwolves with Dominant Win

Deandre Ayton's strong performance helps Lakers build momentum ahead of playoffs

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 120-106, sweeping the season series. Despite off-nights from stars Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, the Lakers got a steady, impactful performance from center Deandre Ayton, who had 14 points and 12 rebounds. The win was the Lakers' sixth in their last seven games, as the team's defense, intensity, and belief in each other have all improved.

Why it matters

The Lakers' recent stretch of strong play, including wins over the Knicks and Timberwolves, suggests the team is starting to figure things out and build momentum heading into the playoffs. Ayton's performance was particularly notable, as the Lakers have been seeking more consistent production from their starting center position.

The details

Despite off-nights from Dončić and Reaves, the Lakers got a dominant performance from Ayton, who attacked the glass, defended with purpose, and provided a steady presence in the paint. The Lakers' defense and team-wide effort and intensity were keys to the win, with players like Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia making winning plays despite subpar shooting nights.

  • The Lakers have now won six of their last seven games.
  • The two losses during that stretch came in the final seconds of the fourth quarter.

The players

Deandre Ayton

The Lakers' starting center, who had 14 points and 12 rebounds in the win, providing a steady, impactful presence that was crucial to the victory.

Luka Dončić

The Timberwolves' star player, who struggled early but finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists.

Austin Reaves

The Lakers' guard, who had a slow start but scored 29 points in the second half to help put the game away.

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What they’re saying

“Everybody that stepped on the court did an amazing job. Everybody fought until the end.”

— Luka Dončić (The Athletic)

“It's great for his teammates to see him have a really good performance on both ends of the floor. I think it's bigger for DA to have a game like that against a really good team, one of the best teams in basketball.”

— JJ Redick, Lakers Head Coach (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their strong play as they push for a high playoff seed in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

The Lakers' recent stretch of dominant wins, including their sweep of the Timberwolves, suggests the team is starting to find its identity and build the necessary chemistry and intensity to make a deep playoff run. Deandre Ayton's strong performance was a particularly encouraging sign for the Lakers, who have been seeking more consistent production from their starting center.