Luka Doncic's playoff debut for the Los Angeles Lakers turned out to be quite solid in Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night.

When the first quarter ended as the Lakers led 28-21, Doncic impressed throughout the first 12 minutes of the game. He had 16 points and three rebounds in the period, shooting 5-of-10 from the field, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc.

One of his best highlights happened less than four minutes into the quarter. He knocked down a difficult 3-pointer that saw Timberwolves' defender Jaden McDaniels heavily contest the shot.

How Luka Doncic, Lakers played in first half

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) is defended by Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) in the first quarter at Crypto.com Arena.
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Despite the solid first quarter from Luka Doncic and the Lakers, the Timberwolves made a strong response in the next 12 minutes.

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Lakers News
Los Angeles Lakers small forward LeBron James (6) smiles from the bench during the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center.
Lakers star LeBron James’ post-retirement plans linked to AmazonPreston Byers ·
LeBron James answers a question during an interview session with reporters during the Los Angeles Lakers media day at the UCLA Health Training Center.
Bill Simmons rips Lakers, Buss family with LeBron James bailout takePreston Byers ·
Lamar Odom Kobe Bryant
Lamar Odom praises Kobe Bryant on helping him with his gambling addictionAutumn Hawkins ·
Vlade Divac attends the game between the Sacramento Kings and the LA Clippers at the Intuit Dome.
NBA news: Vlade Divac undergoes surgery after scary motorcycle crashJulian Ojeda ·
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts during the second half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena.
Colin Cowherd hits Luka Doncic with warning after Lakers saleLorenzo J Reyna ·
Lakers rumors: How new owner will be 'valuable resource' for LeBron James
Lakers rumors: How new owner will be ‘valuable resource’ for LeBron JamesJulian Ojeda ·

Minnesota initiated a huge run that saw them take a double-digit lead. They won the second quarter 38-20, knocking down multiple 3-pointers as they boast a 59-48 edge at the break.

Los Angeles was inconsistent with their overall shot-making. They converted 38% of their total field goal attempts but made 42% of their shots from downtown. This was in contrast to the Timberwolves' shooting splits of 50% overall, 50% from three, and 80% from the free-throw line.

Only three players made a significant impact in the Lakers' offense so far. Doncic leads with 20 points and four rebounds, LeBron James scored 10 points while Rui Hachimura has nine points and four rebounds.

Minnesota will continue to provide tough challenges to the Lakers' defense with their ability to shoot from the perimeter. What will matter for Los Angeles is to respond with their own shooting prowess while getting more stops on the defensive side of the ball.

Following this matchup, the Lakers will prepare for Game 2 against the Timberwolves. The contest will take place on April 22 at 10 p.m. ET.