In a stunning turnaround, Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota Timberwolves to a commanding 42-point victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of their playoff series. The turning point would have to be following Game 2 with much of that frustration directed towards the home team. At 23 years old, that’s an admirable shift for Edwards to have taken in his overall approach. He even changed his song selection before games to match this attitude.
Before the game, Edwards switched from his usual playlist of Drake and Nipsey Hussle to Young Jeezy on the suggestion of Wolves development coach James “Flight” White. This change in his music selection set the tone for a new Edwards, a mood that was felt and continued to uplift his players. Here’s what Julius Randle had to say after the game. As he put it, “It was a Jeezy kind of day,” emphasizing the impact the pregame atmosphere had on him.
Edwards was the best player on the court — he scored a game-high 30 points in only 30 minutes. He flexed his muscles early and often, making his impact felt with 16 points in the first quarter, playing with an imposing physicality. His enthusiastic pace, leadership, and emotional presence – particularly on the floor – were on display all game long.
The on-the-field leadership Edwards showed this season earned praise from coaches and teammates closely watching his development. Chris Finch, the head coach of the Timberwolves, stated, “The leadership that [Edwards] has shown this season is up by leaps and bounds. It’s just another example of it.” Finch credited Edwards’ relentless optimism even following Game 2. Edwards emerged as one of the most hopeful, persistent voices on the team when times were tough, his manager said.
Edwards’ impact on the fly was further exemplified when Edwards went in to talk to Randle on a team flight. His constant motivation to Randle to never lose hope was felt and appreciated. Teammate Mike Conley agreed, adding that Randle was favored in this award for the large part he contributed in lifting the franchise back to respectability.
“Ju was a big part of how we came out in this game,” – Mike Conley
Though at times some of his plays may come off as sophomoric, Edwards’ never-ending motor has been a huge positive for the defense. Naz Reid commented about Edwards’ influence, stating that “around Anthony Edwards, you can never really get down on yourself.” This outlook helped create a culture of toughness among the roster.
There was no doubt about confidence or drama around Edwards with the Timberwolves heading into Game 3. Finch noted that he “never sensed a loss of confidence in our team,” rather an underlying frustration that needed to be addressed. The change in a more dynamic pregame culture seem to infuse the squad with life. Edwards’ determined leadership was critical to changing the momentum for Minnesota.
Edwards is quickly developing into a fierce leader, both on and off the court. His commitment to the team’s long term success is never in doubt. He emphasized the importance of keeping emotions in check for the benefit of the team, saying, “I’m the one who keeps saying that it’s all about winning and regardless as a competitor, you don’t want to let your emotions overtake what’s best for the team.”
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