Anthony Edwards expressed strong belief in Minnesota's title chances for 2026-27, stating he relies on pure will rather than hope. Bolstered by the arrival of LaMelo Ball, head coach Chris Finch believes the experienced Timberwolves are ready to break through among the NBA's top contenders.
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Anthony Edwards believes the Minnesota Timberwolves have what it takes to compete for an NBA championship in the 2026-27 season.
With several teams capable of making a deep playoff run, the young superstar is approaching the campaign with confidence and determination rather than simply hoping for success.
The NBA has seen eight different champions in the past eight seasons, creating an unusually competitive landscape. Edwards wants Minnesota to become the next team to reach the top, and he remains focused on bringing a title to the franchise.
"I don’t really have hope. I just got will,” Edwards told The Associated Press.
“I’m just all will. It’s like, ‘I don’t think he’s better than me. I don’t think that they can beat me and my team.’ It’s just that simple."
"Whoever we line up against, you just not going to sit here and tell me that their team is going to beat our team. It’s that simple, I don’t hope. I don’t wish for nothing. It’s straight will and determination. And we’re going to show it every night," he concluded
New addition could make Minnesota stronger
The Timberwolves have strengthened their roster by bringing in LaMelo Ball, who is expected to form an exciting backcourt partnership with Edwards. Ball’s playmaking abilities could allow Edwards to focus more on scoring and attacking defenses, giving Minnesota another dimension offensively.
Ball will partner with Rudy Gobert, a proven defensive presence, alongside a roster with experience from several consecutive playoff appearances. Minnesota reached the Western Conference finals in 2023 and 2024 before falling in the second round last season.
Experience could make the difference
Edwards averaged a career-high 28.8 points per game last season and continues to establish himself among the league’s elite players. At just 25 years old, he has already earned four All-Star selections and an Olympic gold medal.
Head coach Chris Finch believes Minnesota has earned its place among the serious contenders.
"How many times do you sit at the big table vs. the kids table? You’ve just got to keep sitting down at the big table, and eventually you can punch through,” Minnesota coach Chris Finch said.
"This parity that we’re in means if you sit down at the table, you have a chance. And I feel like we are that type of team and organization," Finch concluded
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