Playing on the second night of a road back-to-back can only be so much of a reason for the Lakers’ offensive performance in their loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night. Because the 109-80 defeat – their fifth loss in seven games – was the latest example of struggles that have gone on for more than a week.

The Timberwolves finally routed an opponent Monday at Target Center, and had fun doing it. What a relief that must be for all involved. After a four-game losing streak a week ago that led to frank internal conversations,