Breakthrough in the Second Round
After waiting for 20 years, the Timberwolves finally tasted victory in the second round of the playoffs, with Anthony Edwards scoring a staggering 43 points in his playoff debut. This achievement marks the third-highest scoring performance in a second-round debut in history, trailing only Luka Doncic’s 45 points in 2022 and Stephen Curry’s 44 points in 2013.
Historical Context
It’s worth noting that all three players achieved this milestone in their fourth season. Comparatively, Wilt Chamberlain scored 42 points in his first second-round appearance, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar scored 35, Kevin Durant scored 33, while Michael Jordan and Karl Malone each scored 29. LeBron James trailed with 22 points.
Impressive Playoff Performances
Before turning 23, Edwards has already scored 40 or more points three times in the playoffs, tying him with LeBron James and Amare Stoudemire for the second-most in history, behind Doncic’s five times. Should the Timberwolves continue advancing, Edwards has the chance to set a new record of his own.
Growth and Versatility
In last season’s playoffs against the Nuggets, Edwards averaged 31.6 points, 5 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. His ball-handling skills have notably improved, adding to his already formidable offensive arsenal and defensive commitment. Nuggets coach Michael Malone couldn’t help but praise him, stating that Edwards has “no weaknesses in his game.”
Confidence Against the Best
When asked about facing reigning champions and two-time MVP Nikola Jokic, Edwards confidently stated, “It’s always fun to compete against the best players in the world, and it’s also fun to compete against the best teams in the world.”
Timberwolves’ Playoff Journey
In the 2003-04 season, led by Kevin Garnett, Latrell Sprewell, and Sam Cassell, the Timberwolves fought their way from a one-round exit to the Western Conference Finals before falling to the “Purple and Gold F4.”
Reflecting on the team’s return to the second round and victory after 20 years, Edwards, born on August 5, 2001, joked, “20 years ago, I probably wasn’t even born yet.” (Lvbet)
