Anthony Edwards scored 45 points in the Minnesota Timberwolves’ season opener against the Miami Heat, joining Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain as the only players in NBA history with multiple 40-point games to start a season. Edwards shot 16-of-29 from the field and made nine of 17 three-pointers, adding 10 rebounds, three assists, and two steals in the 131-106 victory.
This was Edwards’ second 40-point season opener, according to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, putting him in elite company alongside Jordan and Chamberlain. The Timberwolves, who made significant changes during the offseason, acquired LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets to address their need for a point guard. Despite Ball’s scoring ability, the team expected Edwards to remain the primary offensive threat, with Ball focusing more on playmaking.
Freed from the main ball-handling duties, Edwards was able to operate off the ball and create his own shots with greater efficiency. His three-point shooting, which improved markedly last season, continued to be a weapon as he connected on more than half of his attempts from beyond the arc. Ball contributed 21 points and six assists, showing his ability to create opportunities for teammates in his Timberwolves debut.
Jaden McDaniels added 17 points and eight rebounds, helping Minnesota control the game from start to finish. Giannis Antetokounmpo led Miami with 35 points and six rebounds in his Heat debut, but no other Miami player scored more than 20 points, making it difficult for the team to keep pace against Minnesota’s offense.
The Timberwolves’ strong start reflects the impact of their offseason moves and the growth of Edwards as a scorer. Minnesota will face the Orlando Magic on Friday as they look to build on their opening night performance.
According to Yahoo Sports.
