MINNEAPOLIS — Anthony Edwards has spent this postseason making believers out of anyone still in doubt.
The 23-year-old Minnesota Timberwolves star delivered another stunning performance on Sunday night, pouring in 43 points to lift his team to a narrow 116-113 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4. The victory leaves the Timberwolves just one win away from advancing to the Western Conference semifinals, with a commanding 3-1 series lead.
“I’ve been dreaming all my life for these moments, man,” Edwards said after the game, speaking with a wide grin. He dedicated the night to his young daughter, Aislynn. “My baby was able to come see me play — my Aisy Paisy. I wanted to make the most of it.”
A New Playoff Star Rises
Edwards’ performance was more than just a display of raw scoring. He showed grit, overcoming a first-half injury scare and saving his best for when it mattered most. Sixteen of his 43 points came in a pulsating fourth quarter that sent the Target Center crowd into raptures.
The numbers underline the dominance:
- 43 points
- 9 rebounds
- 6 assists
- 12-of-23 shooting (55.2%)
- 5-of-10 from three-point range (50%)
- 14-of-17 from the free-throw line (82.4%)
- Just one turnover
It was a performance for the record books. Edwards has now posted five 40-point games in his first 31 playoff appearances, a Timberwolves franchise record. His five made three-pointers on Sunday also pushed him to 100 career playoff threes, making him the youngest player in NBA history to reach that milestone.
The Timberwolves’ Growing Legacy
When Minnesota drafted Edwards first overall in 2020, the franchise had just 18 playoff wins in its history. Five seasons later, Edwards has played a role in 15 more — and counting.
Coach Chris Finch praised his star guard’s impact after the game, saying, “He’s fearless. He’s got that rare quality where the bigger the moment, the more comfortable he feels. We’re seeing the start of something special here.”
The Lakers fought hard, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis both posting strong outings, but they struggled to contain Edwards down the stretch. Minnesota’s depth, energy, and poise ultimately made the difference.
A Pivotal Game 5 Looms
The Timberwolves now have a golden chance to close the series when they travel to Los Angeles for Game 5 on Wednesday at Crypto.com Arena.
For now, though, it’s Edwards’ night — one that his daughter may not remember firsthand, but one that will surely be replayed in highlights for years to come.
“She’s gonna look back at it one day,” Edwards said, still smiling, “and see she was at the game. That’s what drove me today.”
