Edwards Leads Timberwolves to Game 1 Victory

The Minnesota Timberwolves went into Denver and stole game one from the Nuggets 106-99. Anthony Edwards and rebounding led Minnesota.

Anthony Edwards

Edwards’ performance in game one was not just a career-high but a statement of his potential in the playoffs. Scoring 43 points, shooting 17-29 from the field and 3-7 from beyond the arc, he was a force to be reckoned with. His 25 points in the first half set the tone for the game. With seven rebounds and three assists, Edwards’ all-around game is a testament to his growing influence in the playoffs.

“There’s no weaknesses in his game,” Malone said. “And it’s going to be a hell of a challenge trying to slow him down.”

Edwards had Help

While Edwards was the standout performer, the Timberwolves’ victory was a collective effort. Karl Anthony Towns contributed 20 points on 8-13 shooting, Michael Conley had 14 points and ten assists, and Naz Reid scored 16 points off the bench, with 14 of those coming in the crucial fourth quarter.

Defense

While the Nuggets shot 46.75 from the field and 41.9% from three, they did a great job keeping Jamal Muarry in check. They held Murray scoreless in the first half; he finished with 17 points. Nikola Jokic scored 32 points but shot 11-25 from the field. Michale Porter Jr. added 20 points, but nobody else did a lot outside of those three.

 Another key factor for the Timberwolves was that they were only allowed three offensive rebounds, and Denver was only one shot and out. Minnesota outrebounded the Nuggets 42-34.

This will be the recipe going forward for the Nuggets to win this series. Edwards has taken his game to another level, and it’s fun watching him play. But he is not doing it alone.