Jarred Vanderbilt’s fired-up reaction as Los Angeles Lakers draw Minnesota Timberwolves in playoffs - "We're going to Minnesota, boys!"

Raunak Bose / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 15, 2025, 08:36 IST

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Jarred Vanderbilt expressed his readiness for the upcoming playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, his former team. Traded for Rudy Gobert, Vanderbilt's familiarity with Minnesota's system and defensive skills could be crucial for the Lakers. Despite recent injury challenges, his presence provides valuable experience as Los Angeles aims to overcome the Timberwolves.

Jarred Vanderbilt’s fired-up reaction as Los Angeles Lakers draw Minnesota Timberwolves in playoffs - "We're going to Minnesota, boys!"

Jarred Vanderbilt (Image via USA TODAY Sports)

The Los Angeles Lakers are set to take on the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the NBA playoffs, and forward Jarred Vanderbilt had a straightforward response to the matchup. After the Lakers�?playoff opponent was confirmed, Vanderbilt simply said, “We’re going to Minnesota, boys.�?/span>
The comment came following the LA Clippers�?win on Sunday, which locked in the Lakers-Timberwolves series. For Vanderbilt, the matchup carries extra significance—he’ll be facing his former team and the player he was traded for, Rudy Gobert.

Jarred Vanderbilt’s history with the Minnesota Timberwolves

Jarred Vanderbilt spent parts of three seasons with Minnesota before being traded to the Utah Jazz in 2022 as part of the deal that brought Gobert to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Less than a year later, he was sent to the Los Angeles Lakers at the 2023 trade deadline, where he quickly became a key contributor.

During the Lakers�?run to the Western Conference Finals that year, Vanderbilt started most games under head coach Darvin Ham, playing a crucial role in the team’s defensive success. Now, he’ll have a chance to eliminate the franchise that moved him just two seasons ago.

Injuries have limited Vanderbilt’s availability

While Jarred Vanderbilt is healthy for this year’s playoffs, his recent seasons have been plagued by injuries. Since the Los Angeles Lakers�?conference finals appearance in 2023, he has played in only 65 games and missed last year’s first-round series against the Denver Nuggets. His presence this time gives the Lakers an experienced defender who knows Minnesota’s system well.
The Minnesota Timberwolves, who reached the conference finals last season, present a tough challenge for the Lakers. Though stars like LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Anthony Edwards will dominate headlines, Jarred Vanderbilt’s role could be pivotal. His familiarity with Minnesota’s personnel and his defensive versatility may give Los Angeles an edge in slowing down the Minnesota Timberwolves�?offense.
With the playoffs approaching, Vanderbilt’s brief but telling reaction sums up the Los Angeles Lakers�?mindset—they’re ready for the challenge, and he’ll have extra motivation against his former team.
Also read: Phoenix Suns fire head coach Mike Budenholzer after one disappointing season; fourth coach in four seasons?
Let us know in the comments below if you second Vanderbilt’s reaction to the Lakers�?mindset going into the playoffs against the Timbs. Also, do not forget to follow TOI NBA to get the latest updates on everything happening in the world of basketball.

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About the Author

Raunak Bose

As a passionate WWE content writer, Raunak craft engaging narratives that bring the thrilling world of wrestling to life, capturing the drama, excitement, and heroism of the ring. His work fuels the imagination of WWE fans, making every match and storyline unforgettable.

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