Luka Doncic and Anthony Edwards had an intense playoff series in 2024, with Doncic's Mavericks ultimately advancing. Now, with Doncic joining the Los Angeles Lakers alongside LeBron James, Edwards and the Timberwolves, bolstered by Julius Randle, will face a new challenge as they meet again.
On the recent episode of ESPN’s First Take, the panel gave their predictions ahead of the pivotal first-round series. Smith sent a stern warning to Edwards and the Timberwolves.
“Luka is the scarier matchup,” Smith proclaimed. “He just finished destroying them last year. Every time he goes up against Minnesota, he puts it on them.”
Luka Doncic dominated the Timberwolves in the last postseason, averaging 32.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 2.2 steals per game, efficiently hitting shots at 47.3% despite Minnesota's defensive efforts.
Coach Smith praises Anthony Edwards' talent and expects him to excel in the first round, but notes that even Edwards' best efforts might not be enough against the Lakers' powerful duo of Luka Doncic and LeBron James, supported by Austin Reaves and the rest of the side
Coach Smith is confident the Lakers will advance to the second round, predicting Luka Doncic will again outplay Anthony Edwards, just like last year. The series tips off on April 19, with the Timberwolves aiming to upset the Lakers at home.
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