The Minnesota Timberwolves faced off against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, and despite a valiant effort, they fell short with a 108-105 loss. All-Star guard Anthony Edwards, who has been a standout player throughout the 2024 NBA playoffs, shared his honest thoughts after the game.
Following the defeat, star guard Anthony Edwards took responsibility for his performance and decision-making, according to a tweet by NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT):
“I’m turning down a lot of shots…I’m just making the right play…Sometimes the right play may be to be just shoot it.”
"I'm turning down a lot of shots…I'm just making the right play…Sometimes the right play may be to just shoot it."
Ant following Minnesota's tough Game 2 loss pic.twitter.com/P2wIDwnTuh
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 25, 2024
Edwards’ comments shed light on the delicate balance between shot selection and playmaking that young, high-scoring guards like himself often grapple with.
Flat Start and Energy Lapses
In his post-game media session, Edwards didn’t mince words. He acknowledged that the Timberwolves came out flat in Game 1. Although they found their energy at times, they couldn’t sustain it. Anthony Edwards himself felt he didn’t attack the rim as aggressively as he should have. Fatigue might have played a role, but he took responsibility for the team’s performance.
Anthony Edwards’ Playoff Journey
Before facing the Mavericks, the Timberwolves engaged in a grueling seven-game series against the Denver Nuggets. Edwards played a pivotal role in their victory over the Nuggets, but the toll of that series was evident. Meanwhile, the Mavs had an extra day of rest after defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder in six games.
As the series shifts back to the Target Center in Minnesota for Game 2, Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves have an opportunity to bounce back. The winner of this series will advance to the NBA Finals, where they’ll face either the Boston Celtics or the Indiana Pacers. The Celtics currently lead the Pacers 1-0 in their series.
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