Rudy Gobert delivered a masterclass in Game 5, propelling the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 103-96 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers and clinching the series 4-1. The French center posted playoff career highs with 27 points and 24 rebounds, shooting an efficient 12-of-15 from the field. Gobert’s dominance was especially pronounced against the Lakers’ small-ball lineup, which lacked a true center, allowing him to control the paint on both ends of the floor.

The Timberwolves jumped out to a 14-point lead in the first quarter, capitalizing on the Lakers’ decision to start Dorian Finney-Smith in place of Jaxson Hayes. Despite Minnesota’s struggles from beyond the arc-hitting just 7-of-47 three-point attempts-their interior presence, led by Gobert, compensated for their poor shooting. Julius Randle added 23 points, while Anthony Edwards contributed 15 points and 11 rebounds, though he struggled with his shot throughout the night.

The Lakers, meanwhile, showed resilience after falling behind early. Luka Dončić, who finished with 28 points and nine assists, briefly left the game with a back injury following a hard foul but returned in the second half to spark a third-quarter rally. LeBron James added 22 points, and Rui Hachimura chipped in 23, but the Lakers’ offense faltered late, missing five consecutive shots and going over three minutes without a field goal as Minnesota nursed a narrow lead.

Minnesota’s ability to withstand the Lakers’ comeback attempts was rooted in Gobert’s impact. He became the first player since 1996 to record at least 25 points and 20 rebounds on 80% shooting in a playoff game. The Timberwolves’ victory marks their first time winning playoff rounds in consecutive seasons and sets up a Western Conference semifinal matchup against the winner of the Warriors-Rockets series.