MINNEAPOLIS — In what he called “the biggest game of our career,” Anthony Edwards didn’t just play — he inspired.
The Timberwolves’ star guard returned from what looked like a devastating ankle injury to power Minnesota to a 106-97 win over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night, leveling the Western Conference semifinal series at one game apiece.
A Scare That Nearly Changed Everything
The turning point came midway through the second quarter. As Edwards attacked the rim, Warriors big man Trayce Jackson-Davis came flying in for a block — and landed squarely on Edwards’ left foot.
Edwards crumpled to the floor, grabbing his ankle. The crowd fell silent. Timberwolves coach Chris Finch was already preparing for life without him.
“This one, I was really planning on not seeing him the rest of the game,” Finch admitted.
But just minutes into the second half, there he was — back on the court, limping slightly, but still attacking.
Edwards Delivers Again
Edwards finished with 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists, three steals, and a block in 34 minutes — 13 of those points coming after the injury. He led all players with a +21 plus-minus.
His teammates were in awe:
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“My man’s got an immortal ankle,” said Josh Minott.
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“He’s like Wolverine,” joked Julius Randle.
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“He’s got to have his leg chopped off or some s— [to come out],” added Jaden McDaniels.
Edwards downplayed the heroics but acknowledged the pain:
“That one was crazy,” he said. “But I’ll be all right.”
Always Room for More
Despite the gritty performance, Edwards was his own harshest critic — particularly about his finishing.
“They let me get to the rim, and I’m not finishing, so it’s kind of weird,” he said. “I’ve got to get back to working on my finishing and stop working on my 3s.”
He also pointed to a missed alley-oop from Randle as a moment he’d want back.
What’s Next
The series now shifts to San Francisco for a critical Game 3 on Saturday — and with Stephen Curry still sidelined due to a hamstring strain, Minnesota has an opening to take control.
And with Ant suiting up, they believe anything is possible.
“We lead with belief,” Finch said. “And with Ant back, we lead with fire.”
