Anthony Edwards was on fire during the Minnesota Timberwolves 130-117 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies in the Western Conference first-round series. The dynamic scorer put up 36 points in his maiden playoff appearance setting a franchise record for most points in a playoff debut.
Edwards did not stop attacking the Grizzlies providing a spark every time Memphis was getting in the brink of taking the lead. With his 36-point performance in Game 1, Edwards joined Derrick Rose, Tyler Herro and Magic Johnson scoring at least 35 points in a playoff game before turning 21, per NBA.com.
The sophomore swingman had the fourth-best playoff debut in the history of the league behind Luka Doncic (42 PTS), John Williamson (38 PTS) and George Mikan (37 PTS), per Hoopshype.com. Edwards also became the third-youngest player to score more than 35 points in a playoff game, according to ESPN Stats and Info.
Karl-Anthony Towns, who bounced back from a disappointing play-in performance with 29 points and 13 rebounds Saturday, praised his teammate.
“He’s not going to get an easy shot,” Towns told reporters. “For him to be able to take multiple dribbles in the playoffs and still get to his spot and make a shot, it’s something that’s special.
Because once you’re in the playoffs, usually the one-on-one dribble drives get taken away, and he’s still finding ways to get there. He’s a special talent.”
Edwards made some huge shots despite the Memphis’ effort to drive him away from his usual spots. The Georgia product shot 12-of-23 from the field and 4-of-11 from deep to go with six assists, two rebounds, two blocks and a steal. He stuffed the stat sheet and led his team to 1-0.
“I love my shots,” Edwards confidently stated. “Whatever shot I take, whether it’s a step-back trey-ball or a step-back midrange or a floater or a layup — whatever my shot is — I like it.
Sometimes, [Timberwolves coach Chris Finch] may not like it, but I love my shot. I’m just trusting myself.”
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