The Minnesota Timberwolves achieved a historic milestone on Sunday night by accomplishing something they had never done in their 35-year history: sweeping an opponent. Their dominant 4-0 series sweep of the Phoenix Suns was a convincing display of the Wolves’ depth and talent, with both role players and stars performing exceptionally well.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Jaden McDaniels received significant national recognition for their defensive efforts against Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker. Rudy Gobert showcased his defensive prowess both on the perimeter and as a rim protector. Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns secured his first-ever postseason series win with a stellar 28-point, 10-rebound performance in the series-clinching Game 4.
However, standing out above all was ascending superstar Anthony Edwards. The face of the Timberwolves franchise delivered an outstanding performance in Phoenix on Sunday night, scoring 40 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and dishing out six assists to cement Minnesota’s spot in the second round of the playoffs for the first time since the 2003-04 campaign.
Edwards’ heroics saved the day as he completely outshone the Suns’ big three when it mattered most. With multiple clutch triples and a poster dunk, he left an indelible mark on the series. After the conclusion of the series, future NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Durant praised Edwards for his terrific performance.
Following Game One of the series, Edwards expressed his admiration for Durant’s incredible shotmaking despite the Wolves’ convincing win to start the series.
“Did you see him in the third quarter? I felt like we were supposed to be up 15, 18 in the third quarter, and, if I’m not mistaken, he made 4 or 5 straight buckets like it was nothing. I became a fan at one point. I was out there like ‘goddamn, he nice.’.. he’s the greatest to ever do it, man. My hat tips to him.”
Durant continued his incredible efficiency throughout the series, but it was not enough to deal with the far-superior Timberwolves roster. Edwards, in particular, proved to be the trump card the Suns and Frank Vogel had no answer for. In the series, Minnesota’s lead guard averaged 31.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, shooting 51.2% from the floor and connecting on 43.8% of his threes.
Edwards’ dominance on the floor earned him another fan, this time from his long-time idol. At the end of the series, Durant shared his approval of Edwards’ talent.
“So impressed with Ant. My favorite player to watch. Just grown so much since he came into the league… Just his love for the game shines bright. That’s one of the reasons I like him the most… Love everything about Ant. Everything.”
Durant’s comments clearly reflect a sign of respect. While the two battled it out all series long, ultimately, Edwards got the better of Durant as he sent the Suns packing. Now, the Timberwolves have some issues to address, including an injury to their head coach Chris Finch. Additionally, they await the conclusion of the series between the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets before starting their second-round series.