Playoff basketball has arrived.
Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves made a stunning start to his 2024 playoff campaign at the expense of Kevin Durant. In Game 1 against the Phoenix Suns, held at Minneapolis’ Target Center, Edwards notched a game-high 33 points, leading his team to a decisive 120-95 victory.
In a standout moment during the last minute of the third quarter, Edwards skillfully maneuvered around Durant and nailed a deep shot directly in front of the Suns’ star, boosting the Timberwolves’ lead to 86-70, their biggest margin at that time. This pivotal basket also fueled Edwards’ spirited exchange of trash talk with the former MVP.
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Edwards’ assertive performance wasn’t limited to his encounters with Durant; he also replicated his dynamic play against Bradley Beal, who had previously bested Edwards in their last meeting.
Reflecting on his on-court banter with Durant during the postgame press conference, Edwards expressed immense satisfaction. “Probably one of the best feelings ever,” he remarked, adding a personal note by acknowledging Durant as his all-time favorite player.
Despite Durant’s solid performance, scoring 31 points on 11-for-17 shooting, it was Edwards who shone brighter in the opening game of the series.