In a stunning Game 1 win, the Minnesota Timberwolves displayed their ability to overcome adversity and showed incredible determination by coming out on top against the Phoenix Suns at home with a decisive 120-95 play. In Game 1, Anthony Edwards from the Timberwolves steered the team and completely reversed the trend of their playoff history.
Timberwolves Hit Reset Button
The Timberwolves were the underdogs at the beginning of the series and were in a tough spot as the Suns took hold of the regular-season victories. And while the Suns have a strong offense, it was Minnesota defense that picked up where it left off, defending their identity and shutting down the lakes tremendously. Coach Chris Finch shed light on the fact they need to lift their competence to the point where it will be enough to match the level of intensity in the playoffs and set the tone for a hard-fought series.
Anthony Edwards (@theantedwards_ ) was spectacular for the Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves ) in their impressive 120-95 Game 1 win over the Phoenix Suns. Edwards was the best player on the floor scoring 33 PTS with 9 REB, 6 AST and 2 STL on 14/24 FG shooting and 4/8 3 PT… pic.twitter.com/aIILoNnmHC
— E.K. Johnson (@CoalitionHoops) April 21, 2024
Duel of the Guards
When thousands of people were calling for “MVP” for Anthony Edwards, it was the breakthrough case for the young star, and his great performance gave him an upper hand in the court against his rivals. Even with the consistent threat from Booker, aided by the rival Phoenix star’s scoring prowess and contagious energy, Edwards kept airing his remarkable scoring form and awe-inspiring antics, thus enjoying the adoration of fans and even his opponents.
Anthony Edwards took the court for Game 1 wearing the ‘21’ finger sleeve for Kevin Garnett 🙌
LIVE on ESPN pic.twitter.com/VoWY6v7fQT
— NBA (@NBA) April 20, 2024
Booker’s Struggles
Devin Booker, who is acknowledged for his scoring talent, was swarmed by the defense of the Timberwolves not only in this game but during the whole match, and he was trying to get on the winning mood. While that vulnerability was evident, Booker was still able to lead his team’s offense and make things tight, but they was just not enough. Such a defensive strategy of the Rockets was more effective—to contain Phoenix’s key players.
However, the fact that the Timberwolves defeated the first game showed that they would play at the highest level of the Playoff. Encouraged by Anthony Edwards’ superb performance and team defense, the Timberwolves showed the Suns that they could match each other and make it deep down in Game 1. Having kicked off the series, the entire state of Minnesota will look forward in anticipation to confirming its place in the playoffs and proving once again that it is a contender.
“It was like there was nothing we could do.”
Anthony Edwards on KD’s hot hand in Game 1 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/aMTBBVSqKU
— NBA (@NBA) April 20, 2024
Image forte lors du Game 1 lorsqu’Anthony Edwards, totalement incandescent, et de nouveau auteur d’un shoot sur la tête de Kevin Durant, a chambré ce dernier, son idole, qui l’a pris avec le sourire, acceptant la supériorité du jeune Wolf sur ce match.
KD : “C’est juste du… pic.twitter.com/GxlnV5LvKE
— Basket-Infos (@Basket_Infos) April 21, 2024
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