Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards has not only powered his team to a first-round NBA playoff sweep over the Phoenix Suns but has also earned high praise from peers, including Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant.
Following the Timberwolves’ clinching victory, Durant expressed his admiration, singling out Edwards as a standout performer.
“I’m so impressed with Ant. So impressed with Ant,” Durant said. “My favorite player to watch. Just grown so much since he came into the league.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns, Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
Edwards was sensational in the closeout game, scoring 40 points on 13 of 20 shooting, adding nine rebounds, six assists, two blocks, and a steal. His performance not only underscored his growing prowess but also highlighted his pivotal role in Minnesota’s success this season.
Karl-Anthony Towns, Edwards’ teammate, has been vocal about Edwards’ impact, labeling him as the future of the NBA.
“He’s the face of the league. I’ve been saying that,” Towns said earlier this season. “He hates when I say it, but it’s true.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns, Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
In the pivotal game, Edwards dominated, particularly in the second half, where he scored 31 of his 40 points after noticing a shift in the Suns’ defensive strategy. Edwards interpreted their one-on-one coverage as a direct challenge.
“It was like, you’ve got to beat us,” Edwards recounted. “And I showed them.”
The game also included a notable incident where Timberwolves coach Chris Finch suffered a torn patella tendon after a sideline collision with guard Mike Conley. Assistant coach Micah Nori stepped in to guide the team through the final minutes, embodying the ‘next man up’ philosophy that Nori emphasized post-game.
“Everybody has their role, everybody has each other’s back,” Nori said. “I know it sounds corny, but it’s just next man up, even with the coaching staff.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns, Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
Suns coach Frank Vogel praised the Timberwolves for their formidable play throughout the series, particularly highlighting Edwards’ contributions.
“Their whole team created a lot of problems for us,” Vogel said. “The role players, the stars. Anthony Edwards is a special, special talent. And their bigs played really well.”
As the Timberwolves prepare for the next round, facing either the Denver Nuggets or the Los Angeles Lakers, Edwards remains a central figure. His exceptional growth and performance not only draw the attention of fans but also resonate with fellow NBA players like Durant, who view him as a thrilling talent to watch.
As the playoffs progress, Edwards’ journey continues to be a compelling narrative of rising stardom in the NBA.
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