Minnesota Timberwolves shooting guard Anthony Edwards (5) reacts after making a shot during the first quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves looked for their third win of the preseason as they visited the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Monday.
The Timberwolves were coming off a one-point victory over the Miami Heat, while the Knicks dropped their first two games against the Philadelphia 76ers and the Washington Wizards.
Edwards waxed hot from the onset, scoring 20 points, including a buzzer-beating three-pointer from near the logo at halftime.
The high-scoring guard returned to action after resting against the Heat, along with the rest of the starting unit.
Just like that, the 25-year-old Edwards is already in his seventh year and is considered one of Minnesota's veterans. Over the years, he has learned to embrace a leadership role, including publicly taking accountability. He is expected to do more of that in the upcoming season and set an example to his young teammates.
Last season, he averaged a career-high 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.4 steals, although he played a career-low 61 games due to multiple injuries. He shot a career-best 48.9% from the field, underscoring his improved efficiency.
Many are eager to watch Edwards and LaMelo Ball play together and produce a flurry of highlights with their electric and high-octane style.
Edwards, Ball, Rudy Gobert, Jaden McDaniels, Jonathan Kuminga, Ayo Dosunmu, Bones Hyland, and Joan Beringer will lead the rotation, as Minnesota will try to enter the NBA Finals for the first time.
As of this writing, the Timberwolves are ahead of the Knicks in the third quarter. Edwards has 26 points, including five three-pointers, three rebounds, and three assists in 25 minutes.