Anthony Edwards had a fantastic night in Game 3, as the Minnesota Timberwolves were dominant. The Oklahoma City Thunder had no answer to Edwards and the rest of the team.
In a magnificent bounce-back performance, the Minnesota Timberwolves got a 143-101 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3. They lost the first two games of the Western Conference Finals, but they made sure to dominate at Target Center.
Anthony Edwards was the driving force for the Timberwolves, posting 30 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. It was a well-rounded performance from the team, as they showed they have a sense of urgency. But Edwards does not want to celebrate too much.
A fantastic night for Edwards’ star power
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the superstar for the Thunder. On the other side, Edwards is the star player, but some people had some doubts about his status. This Game 3 performance showed there are no doubts about his ability to be a superstar.
He dominated the game with his three-level scoring, but he was also present as a playmaker. At only 23, Edwards still has untapped potential. This performance could propel him to help the Timberwolves reach the franchise’s first NBA Finals.
However, Edwards does not want to go too far because they are still down 1-2 in the series. He is happy after winning Game 3, but the series is not over. He knows what the Thunder can do and sees them as the toughest test.
“I was super happy about the physicality and energy we brought. Being down 2-0, it’s all about bringing energy, and we brought high energy,” Edwards said after Game 3.
“You gotta erase this one, this one is over. I know everybody is happy about this one. We know this team, OKC gonna come out and bring hella energy and ready to go. We’ve got to come out and exceed their energy. Try to get the win and get Game 5.”
The Timberwolves are well aware of their opponents
Game 4 will be a grueling matchup for both teams. The Thunder will want to bounce back after a horrible Game 3, but the Timberwolves want to keep winning. It is going to be a tough matchup either way, which will make it a blockbuster game again.
The Timberwolves expect the Thunder to perform better than they did in Game 3. It was a rare occasion for the Thunder to have a flat game, and coach Chris Finch is well aware. He will prepare his squad to face a motivated Thunder team.
Gilgeous-Alexander, in particular, will want to perform better, as he is considered an “unguardable” player.
He had a quiet 14-point night, which was a season low. It is rare for a superstar of his caliber to have a game like that, so he will be back.
Edwards and the Timberwolves are ready for what the Thunder throw at them in Game 4.