The Minnesota Timberwolves are on the brink of an upset over the Los Angeles Lakers, clinching a 116-113 win in Game 4 and taking a 3-1 lead in the series.

In a tightly contested match that lasted the full 48 minutes, the Timberwolves seized victory in the final seconds due to a series of pivotal plays. Jaden McDaniels landed a layup while being fouled by Austin Reaves with 39.1 seconds left, equalizing the score at 113-113, and then converted the free throw for a one-point advantage.

McDaniels kept close defensive pressure on Luka Doncic during the next play, leading to a timeout call from the Lakers as Doncic struggled to regain his footing. Lakers’ coach JJ Redick expressed his frustration regarding the foul call after the game, insisting that Doncic was tripped, which impacted their momentum.

In response, Doncic confirmed he felt he was tripped, asserting, “Oh yeah, I think I got tripped, for sure. We had to call timeout.”

As the game neared its conclusion, McDaniels intercepted a pass intended for LeBron James. Anthony Edwards attempted to push the lead further but fumbled the ball out of bounds. Timberwolves’ coach Chris Finch challenged the referee’s initial decision, resulting in the call being overturned, thus awarding a foul to James.

James objected vehemently, stating, “That play happens all the time. Hand is part of that ball. I feel like the hand was a part of that ball.”

Contrastingly, Edwards insisted on the foul, noting the impact on his driving play. Edwards capitalized on the circumstances, sinking both free throws to extend the Timberwolves’ lead to 116-113.

Even with the Lakers out of timeouts, they managed a final attempt to tie the game. However, Reaves’ three-point shot hit the rim just before the buzzer, sealing the game for the Timberwolves.

Edwards concluded the game leading in points with 43, showcasing his talent against the likes of James and Doncic. James finished with 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists, having played a hefty 46 minutes, which also saw Doncic contribute 38 points of his own.

Edwards reflected on his performance: “I’ve been dreaming of this all my life… Just trying to prove I belong and tell all my haters I’m better than they think.”

The Timberwolves now approach Game 5 with a chance to secure the series, set for Wednesday in Los Angeles.