Mar 31, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (1) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) hug after the game at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

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Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: Injuries and likely starting lineups

Lakers will lock horns with Anthony Edwards and Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday to tip their season off.

The Los Angeles Lakers will begin their 2024-25 NBA season on Wednesday with a matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena.

Both teams are seeking redemption after falling short in last year’s playoffs. The Lakers were eliminated in the first round, while the Timberwolves’ season ended in the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Mavericks.

Lakers Team News and Predicted Lineup

After a challenging preseason where the Lakers posted a 2-4 record, new head coach JJ Redick faces the task of revitalizing the storied franchise and guiding them back to championship contention. Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter, now steps into his first head coaching role, inheriting a team with high expectations despite its recent struggles.

On the roster front, the Lakers have added undrafted guard Quincy Olivari on a two-way contract after his impressive preseason showing.

The Los Angeles Lakers are signing Quincy Olivari to a two-way NBA contract, his agent Darrell Comer told me and @mcten. Incredible story for the Lakers' undrafted rookie out of Xavier who earns roster spot after standout preseason. Lakers are waiving center Colin Castleton. pic.twitter.com/R132rLudFv
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 19, 2024

The team, however, will be short-handed for the season opener. Armel Traore (hand) and Christian Koloko (illness) are sidelined but could return soon. Rui Hachimura, who has been dealing with a calf issue, is expected to return against the Timberwolves, offering a key boost to the Lakers’ lineup.

Predicted Starting 5:

D’Angelo Russell

Austin Reaves

LeBron James

Rui Hachimura

Anthony Davis

Timberwolves Team News and Predicted Lineup

The Timberwolves enter the season in solid health, with only Naz Reid dealing with a shoulder impingement. This leaves Minnesota largely at full strength as they prepare for their opener against the Lakers.

Star shooting guard Anthony Edwards will look to continue his dominance against the Lakers, having scored 109 points in his last four meetings. His offensive firepower will be crucial as Minnesota aims for a strong start to the season.

The Timberwolves will also feature new faces, with Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo debuting after being traded for Karl-Anthony Towns. Randle’s inside presence and DiVincenzo’s two-way ability will add depth to Minnesota’s lineup. Both players bring valuable experience and will play key roles in shaping the team’s success this season.