What if with what they did the Lakers will end up at 7? I mean they would still have to face the Nuggets at that standing, and if they want a top 8, they need to beat the Warriors which is also another problem as that will be a do or die game. I think they really don't do that purposely, as much as possible gaining the top 6 will give them assurance that they'll be in the playoffs, so every game matters to them.
I guess like what LeBron said one game at the time, they just need to keep playing and aiming to reach the playoff no matter what, that loss may give the Wolves the top spot but not becuase Lakers is avoiding anything it just happened that Wolves do their usual setup and take the game agains them, still plenty of games to focus and try to win to keep the spot open and no matter what or no matter who will the opponents they need to win if they want to take the title nothing else but to accomplish their goals.
We also have to respect the Timberwolves because they are so improve this season., taking the number 1 spot is not the first time for them, and just look what they are doing, without KAT things hasn't seemed to change.