In a memorable Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets, Anthony Edwards showcased his leadership and composure, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 98-90 victory. The game was marked by Edwards’ postgame interaction with Charles Barkley on TNT. Barkley mentioned he hadn’t been to Minneapolis in two decades, to which Edwards humorously replied, “Bring ya ass.” This moment captured the confidence and swagger Edwards brings to the Timberwolves.
A Different Kind of Heroics
While Game 7 didn’t feature the typical high-scoring heroics from Edwards, his performance was a masterclass in playing the right way. At just 22 years old, Edwards demonstrated maturity and decision-making that belies his age. He didn’t need to score 40 points or make every three-pointer to lead his team to victory. Instead, he focused on creating intelligent plays and setting up his teammates for success.
Edwards’ decisive three-pointer in the fourth quarter was a turning point. With the Timberwolves leading 89-82 after a Naz Reid put-back, Jamal Murray turned the ball over under pressure from Mike Conley. Conley then passed to a sprinting Reid, who found Edwards in the corner. Despite being 1/8 from three at that point, Edwards confidently lined up the shot and hit nothing but net, extending the lead to ten and forcing a Nuggets timeout.
First Half Struggles
The game began as a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to score. Edwards scored his first points at the 8:46 mark of the first quarter with a difficult pull-up jumper, making it 4-3 in favor of the Timberwolves. Denver’s defense focused heavily on Edwards, doubling him on pick-and-rolls and crowding the paint whenever he had the ball. This strategy made it challenging for Edwards to find scoring opportunities, and he ended the first quarter with just two points.
Denver took control in the second quarter, building a 12-point lead. Coach Chris Finch subbed Edwards out, turning to Kyle Anderson to spark the offense. The Timberwolves cut the lead to six before the Nuggets extended it back to eleven. By halftime, Denver led 53-38, and Edwards had only four points on 1/7 shooting. Finch’s halftime advice to Edwards was simple: make quicker decisions.
Historic Comeback
In the third quarter, they started poorly for the Timberwolves, with the Nuggets extending their lead to 20 points. However, Minnesota began to chip away at the deficit. Edwards ramped up his intensity, driving to the basket and creating opportunities for his teammates. A corner three from Jaden McDaniels, followed by a steal and dunk from Edwards, cut the lead to four points. By the end of the third quarter, the Timberwolves were down by just one, 67-66.
Early in the fourth quarter, Minnesota took their first lead since the first quarter and never looked back. The game plan was simple: let Edwards draw the double team and attack the inside. The strategy paid off, as Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid wore down Denver’s interior defense.
Edwards’ Leadership Seals the Win
Despite not scoring well, Edwards finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. His critical three-pointer in the fourth quarter sealed the game, showcasing his ability to make big plays when it matters most. Edwards faced some of the most aggressive defense of his career and responded with poise, leading his team to a historic victory over the defending champions.
As the Timberwolves move on to face the Dallas Mavericks in the Conference Finals, Edwards’ leadership and determination will be crucial. His performance in Game 7 proved that he is more than just a scorer; he is a leader capable of guiding his team to victory in the most challenging situations. The Timberwolves are back, and the future looks bright with Edwards at the helm.
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