Thunder Sets NBA Playoff Record with 51-Point Game 1 Victory over Grizzlies

The Minnesota Timberwolves seized home-court advantage by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers decisively in Game 1 of their first-round NBA Playoff series, with the Lakers struggling to match the Wolves' physicality and balanced scoring despite a strong performance from Luka Doncic. Lakers coach JJ Redick expressed confidence in his team's preparation for Game 2, noting an especially productive recent practice. Meanwhile, Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards was fined $50,000 by the NBA for making an obscene gesture and using inappropriate language toward a fan during Game 1. The Lakers now aim to even the series before it shifts to Minnesota. In another Western Conference series, the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their postseason with a historic 51-point victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, marking the fifth-biggest postseason win ever and the largest margin in a Game 1. The Thunder, who led by as many as 56 points, demonstrated their dominance after a week-long break and are looking to continue their strong playoff run in Game 2.