4 Things Learned From the Timberwolves’ First Game Without Anthony Edwards

A difficult first test

Team leaders expressed confidence in the roster’s depth. The general manager told Jason DeRusha on WCCO Radio that the team had enough talent to manage the regular season, while President Tim Connelly pointed to the team’s playoff experience playing without Edwards.

Ball faces added responsibility

LaMelo Ball scored eight points on 3-for-11 shooting, including 2-for-8 from three-point range. He added eight assists but committed six turnovers. Minnesota will need Ball to help replace some of Edwards’ scoring, keep the offense moving and reduce turnovers. Ball has been a productive lead creator, but the article noted that physical defense has troubled him at times.

Defense struggles against Warriors

The Timberwolves had no answer for Stephen Curry and Yaxel Lendeborg, who scored 70 points combined. Curry reached 16 free-throw attempts, while Minnesota struggled to contain him. Jaden McDaniels is expected to take on more offensive work, which could affect his defense. Rudy Gobert played 20 minutes and had a rough game; the article suggested he might have been a better matchup for Lendeborg than Draymond Green.

Shannon gets a bigger role

Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 19 points and collected six rebounds in his first game as the team’s new sixth man. He pushed the ball in transition and earned ten free-throw attempts.

Shannon’s challenge will be defending consistently without fouling, as he was often out of position against Golden State. Coach Chris Finch had previously said the team made a mistake by using Shannon mainly in the corner, and Edwards’ absence gives him more chances with the ball.