It’s funny how the calendar works.Six months of NBA basketball have brought us here — back to the beginning, and somehow to the brink. Saturday night, the Los Angeles Lakers host the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of a first-round playoff series that feels anything but ordinary. It’s the kind of matchup that doesn’t just whisper intrigue — it demands attention. Stream Los Angeles News for free, 24/7, wherever you are. WATCH HERE These two teams met on NBA Opening night back in October, but a lot has changed since then.First and foremost, Luka Dončić now dons the purple and gold, so does Dorian Finney-Smith, two players who were not in the lineup in that 110-103 victory on Opening night. Get top local stories in Southern California delivered to you every morning with NBC LA's News Headlines newsletter. SIGN UP However, the Timberwolves still have Anthony Edwards, arguably the best player in the NBA, and a charged up and fearless postseason performer. They also have four-time Defensive...
