Anthony Edwards Reveals Key Strategy to Boost the Wolves’ Performance Tenfold
An examination of the Minnesota Timberwolves reveals key developments as they prepare to begin the 2025-26 NBA season. A crucial figure in their strategy is Anthony Edwards, who emphasizes the need for collective improvement to enhance team performance significantly.
Anthony Edwards’ Growth and Goals
Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves’ standout guard, is focused on bringing a championship to Minnesota. Reflecting on the previous season, he noted the disappointment after losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. “If we ain’t motivated, then we shouldn’t be coming back this year,” he asserted.
Key Player Contributions Required
For Edwards’ aspiration to materialize, the entire roster must elevate their game. The following players are vital to the team’s success:
- Julius Randle: Needs to improve performance on both ends.
- Naz Reid: Must take a step forward this season.
- Mike Conley: Essential to maintain his form.
- Donte DiVincenzo: Should prioritize health and fitness.
- Rudy Gobert: A return to dominant defensive form is crucial.
- Jaden McDaniels: Expected to excel on both offense and defense throughout the season.
Jaden McDaniels: A Rising Force
Jaden McDaniels, drafted 28th overall in 2020, showed significant improvement last season, particularly in the latter half. His development as a two-way player was noted by head coach Chris Finch, who said, “He’s a legitimate two-way player now. But what we need from him is some more playmaking.”
Edwards has observed McDaniels’ advancements in skill during training camp. “Jaden has definitely got a lot better as far as just making decisions with the ball in hand,” he stated.
Season Performance Insights
McDaniels’ performance fluctuated early in the last season but peaked with increased stats in January. Here’s a breakdown of his contributions:
| Month | Points Per Game (PPG) | Rebounds (REB) | Assists (AST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| October | 8.5 | 2.8 | 2.5 |
| November | 10.7 | 4.0 | 1.8 |
| December | 8.7 | 5.8 | 1.2 |
| January | 12.2 | 6.4 | 1.6 |
| February | 18.5 | 8.4 | 2.9 |
| March | 13.9 | 5.9 | 2.8 |
| April | 9.1 | 4.0 | 1.3 |
In playoff outings, McDaniels averaged 17.4 points and 6.4 rebounds against the Lakers and contributed approximately 13 points and five rebounds per game in subsequent series against the Warriors and Thunder.
Outlook for the Season
With the 2025-26 season approaching, Edwards expressed confidence in McDaniels. “We’re going to keep giving him the ball. He can play with the ball in his hands; he’s just gotta make the right play,” he emphasized. This sense of teamwork and shared responsibility is vital for transforming the Timberwolves’ performance this year.
