After what seemed like an eternity, the Los Angeles Lakers returned to action on Tuesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves to start the 2024-25 season. In what was scheduled to be a competitive game, Anthony Davis set the tone throughout the 48 minutes by applying pressure at the rim.
In the second half, Los Angeles would lead convincingly by double digits, but it would start to dwindle in the fourth quarter. Minnesota cut the deficit to four, thanks to Anthony Edwards coming off the backfield. However, Davis would respond accordingly with timely mid-range shots as well as scoring with his back to the basket.
One notable play was when Davis scored a one-and-one on Edwards and the two exchanged words. Seeing how they both went Olympic running together last summer, it was surprising to see this kind of confrontation.
But the Lakers big man spoke out after the game to say there was no malicious intent behind it, and even revealed something Edwards shared with him during their time on Team USA over the summer.
“That’s my guy. I’ve just got that competitive nature. In fact, when we got back to the Olympics we talked about it, and he said we’re the team that hates playing the most because we don’t let him make plays. We make him pass the ball. And I got him one and I was screaming at His face and it was just brotherly love. That’s my guy. We call each other ‘twin’, same name and stuff like that so it wasn’t serious.
Ultimately, players want to win every game they play, regardless of the circumstances. For Los Angeles, which hasn’t won its opener since 2016, it was refreshing to see a dominant performance from the purple and gold, leading to a 110-103 win.
Despite some decline in the second half, Davis’ 36 points, 16 rebounds and three blocks were vital in keeping the Timberwolves at bay. Edwards is his team’s No. 1 option right now and the Lakers have done a great job of forcing him to shoot and making tough shots.
The next meeting between the two teams comes on Dec. 2 in Minnesota, and knowing Edwards, he will keep this matchup in mind when he plays against Davis again.
Anthony Davis focused on ‘controlling every game’
Now more than ever, the Lakers need Anthony Davis to lead the way as the No. 1 option as LeBron James enters his 22nd season. With that in mind, Davis focuses on “controlling every game,” and that mentality was on display on opening night.
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