LOS ANGELES -- Back in training camp, the Lakers made it known their mission was to get back to the playoffs after last season's disappointment.
Sunday's regular-season finale, a 128-117 win over the Utah Jazz, didn't guarantee L.A. a first-round berth, but they will be playing beyond game No. 82.
The Lakers clinched the No. 7 spot in the Western Conference play-in tournament and will host the No. 8 Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night.
A win would lock the Lakers into a first-round series with the No. 2 Memphis Grizzlies, starting on the road on Sunday.