In Game 3 of the Lakers' 116-104 loss to the Timberwolves in their opening-round Western Conference playoff series, it became clear--as if it were not already--that this series is lined up to be a grind for whomever wins.

Not to be overlooked in Minnesota’s game-closing effort was its stellar defensive showing. The Lakers missed five straight shots after tying the game at 103-103 before Los Angeles coach J.J. Redick waved the white flag and removed the starters from the game in the final minute.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have a big opportunity ahead, holding a 2-1 series lead with Game 4 coming at home in their first-round NBA Playoffs series with the Los Angeles Lakers.