The Lakers open up what will surely be a challenging first round series against Minnesota on Saturday evening at the Crypt. And while a lot of advanced numbers like what the Wolves have done this year–it's worth noting that in a season that has seemed like a step back, they won exactly one fewer game than the Lakers—it's not like there aren't strong positive signals for the Lakers as well. One big one? The (expected and typical) closing lineup of Luka, LeBron, Austin Reaves, Dorian Finney-Smith and Rui Hachimura has been very, very good. And as we've seen in the last couple of seasons against the Nuggets, the ability to close games strong has been an issue. It shouldn't be this time around. Meanwhile, while Minnesota's advanced metrics look better than LA's on the offensive and defensive end (and in net rating) the Lakers have a significantly better winning percentage against teams in the upper third of the NBA. 
 

So there's a lot to like, even while respecting the opponent. So how much will stuff like this impact the series in front of us? 

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: The Lakers are closers. 
 

SEGMENT 2: Another strong indicator for LA. 

SEGMENT 3: A curious choice for backup C. 

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