The Los Angeles Lakers are beginning the playoffs, not knowing if LeBron James is up to speed. But they are trying to quell concerns by getting their fans psyched up for Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Lakers officially released an elaborate hype video on their X page to do so. The post's title was “Create chaos. Wreak havoc. This is focused joy.” 

The video's emphasis was to promote going the extra mile to win at all costs. 

A similar approach that USC football undertook when they released their hype video before their matchup against LSU last September. For many reasons, the Lakers-Wolves series is being built as the most anticipated first-round series. 

The high expectations for Lakers vs. Wolves

This series is going to be watched closely because Luka Doncic and LeBron James are playing as teammates for the first time in the postseason. Doncic was traded to the Lakers from the Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis in one of the most historic trades in NBA history. 

Since then, he has emerged as a catalyst for the Lakers. Since the trade, he has averaged 22.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. Despite being hindered by injury, James is averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists this season. 

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A healthy James and a surging Doncic will do wonders for the Lakers. They have developed into a fierce dynamic duo and establishing a strong bond with one another. 

On the Timberwolves' side, Anthony Edwards is emerging as a star, and Rudy Gobert has become one of the most effective defensive players in the league. 

The series is expected to emphasize defense, with both teams possessing a depth of defensive talent. While the Wolves have the advantage in that realm, the Lakers have a solid defensive game backed up by Jarred Vanderbilt and Dennis Schröder. 

The combination of star power and pedigree on both sides will be fully displayed throughout the series. 

According to Nolan O'Hara of Sports Illustrated, the series is likely to go the full seven games, with the odds in the Lakers' favor. 

It is a matter of time before the actual hype exceeds the hype of the Lakers video.