In a thrilling Game 5, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 103-96, with Rudy Gobert leading the charge with playoff career highs of 27 points and 24 rebounds. Julius Randle contributed 23 points, while Anthony Edwards added a double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds, securing the Timberwolves' first playoff series victory in back-to-back seasons in franchise history. The Wolves eliminated LeBron James and Luka Doncic, who played in their first postseason together, showcasing superior late-game execution.

Despite struggling from beyond the arc, Minnesota's strong performance in the paint, particularly by Gobert, proved pivotal. The Lakers, who missed several shots in the closing moments, faced another first-round exit, raising questions about their roster moves. The Timberwolves will now prepare to face the winner of the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors series in the Western Conference semifinals.