NBA legend, Timberwolves' head coach share brutal opinion on Anthony Edwards Game 1 performance
Context:
Anthony Edwards faced criticism from both Minnesota Timberwolves' head coach Chris Finch and NBA analyst Charles Barkley following a lackluster performance in Game 1 against the Golden State Warriors. Despite finishing with 23 points, 14 rebounds, and three steals, Edwards failed to score in the first half and struggled with his shooting, going 1-5 from three-point range. Finch emphasized the importance of Edwards setting the right tone and maintaining energy regardless of shooting woes. Barkley highlighted that Edwards' development as a three-point shooter might have negatively impacted his overall game. With Game 2 approaching and Stephen Curry potentially absent due to injury, Edwards' performance becomes increasingly critical for the Timberwolves' success.
Dive Deeper:
Anthony Edwards was criticized for his Game 1 performance against the Golden State Warriors, where he failed to score in the first half and ended up with 23 points, 14 rebounds, and three steals. Despite these numbers, his shooting was subpar, particularly from beyond the arc, where he made just one out of five attempts.
Head coach Chris Finch expressed disappointment in Edwards' approach to the game, noting that he seemed to have a pre-determined mindset rather than adapting to the game's flow. Finch stressed the need for Edwards to lead by example and maintain energy, even when his shots aren't falling.
NBA analyst Charles Barkley pointed out that Edwards' improvement as a three-point shooter might be detrimental to his game, suggesting that this focus has affected other aspects of his play.
The Timberwolves managed to score only 88 points in the game, indicating a broader offensive struggle that highlights the necessity for Edwards to elevate his performance in upcoming matches.
With Stephen Curry expected to miss Game 2 due to injury, the pressure on Edwards to perform and lead his team effectively is amplified, making his ability to adapt and respond crucial for the Timberwolves' prospects.
There were all types of notable headlines coming from the Timberwolves Game 1 loss to the Golden State Warriors.
Stephen Curry is expected to miss Game 2 on Thursday due to an injury, and Anthony Edwards struggled mightily in Game 1.
"It starts with Ant. I thought Anthony struggled early, and you could just kind of see the light go out a little bit. It was one of those games where he came out with a pre-determined mindset of what he was trying to do, rather than just playing the game that was in front of him," head coach Chris Finch said postgame. "What is there to talk about? You’re the leader of the team and you’ve got to come out and set the tone. If you’re shot’s not going, you still have to carry the energy. If I’ve got to talk to guys about having the right energy coming into the opening second-round game, then we’re not on the same page."
Edwards finished with 23 points, 14 rebounds and three steals, but did so without scoring any points in the first half — Minnesota will simply need more from their superstar, and Finch let him know it.
So too did NBA analyst Charles Barkley, who was also critical of Edwards’ performance.
"The worst thing that ever happened to Anthony Edwards game was him becoming a good three point shooter,” Barkley said.
Edwards was just 1-5 from 3-point range, and the Timberwolves scored just 88 points.
Game 2 is on Thursday.