Preview: The Wolves have won three games in a row and eight of their past 11. The Wolves have also won five consecutive at home -- the first time that has happened since the 2006-07 season. But they will be facing a very motivated Lakers team. L.A. has lost two in a row. A collapse and loss against lowly Washington on Wednesday dropped the Lakers to 6-14 on the road this season and raised questions about coach Mike Brown's ability to coach the Lakers' offense. The Lakers figure to be pretty ornery.
Players to watch: Wolves F Kevin Love continues to amaze. Wednesday he became the first NBA player to score 25 or more points, get 10 or more rebounds and hit three or more three pointers in three consecutive games. F/G Wes Johnson -- whose career high came against the Lakers last year -- is coming off a season-high 19 points on 8-for-11 shooting. G Luke Ridnour's 22 points Wednesday were his most since Feb. 5. Lakers G Kobe Bryant has topped 30 points in three consecutive games. C Andrew Bynum has averaged 19.5 points and 13.8 rebounds his past four games.
Numbers: The Wolves -- coming off a season-high 13 three-pointers vs. Portland-- have hit 36 three-pointers the past three games. The Wolves are 16-10 vs. the West this season. The Wolves are two games over .500 this late in the season for the first time since the end of the 2004-05 season.
Injuries: Wolves G J.J. Barea (left ankle sprain) did not practice and is almost certainly out. C Nikola Pekovic (sore right foot) practiced and is probable. Lakers G Kobe Bryant has been playing with a mask guarding his nasal fracture.
KENT YOUNGBLOOD
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