In Game 4 of the NBA playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers faltered against the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing 116-113 after squandering a double-digit lead. Coach JJ Redick’s decision to rely heavily on just five players in the second half left the team fatigued, with critical errors made in the closing moments. LeBron James, 41, saw limited scoring late in the game, attempting only two shots in the fourth quarter, raising concerns about his endurance. This pattern of exhaustion has plagued the Lakers throughout the series, especially as they now trail 3-1.

Redick's strategy faced scrutiny as Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves also struggled to maintain their early game momentum, shooting inefficiently in the fourth quarter. The Lakers' inability to secure fourth-quarter leads has been a recurring theme in this series, necessitating a tactical shift if they hope to advance beyond Game 5.