Anthony Edwards praised one of the Timberwolves’ most important players – after his comments last year were mocked.
The Minnesota Timberwolves, to the surprise of many, have taken a commanding 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Lakers looked set to win the game. But a disastrous fourth quarter, combined with Anthony Edwards catching fire, changed things entirely. Magic Johnson was irate seeing his Lakers collapse.
Byron Scott praised Anthony Edwards for his brilliant performance against the Lakers. The Timberwolves superstar sunk the game-winning dagger to seal Game 4.
But Edwards spoke after the game and lauded a Timberwolves teammate he believes changed the game. And it’s someone Edwards got mocked for propping up just last year.
Read More: ‘Lost his damn mind’… Donte DiVincenzo called out over late LeBron James moment vs LA Lakers
During last year’s playoffs, Anthony Edwards caught a lot of flak for comparing Jaden McDaniels to Kevin Durant.
His exact quote was – “Yeah, they got Kevin Durant, but we got Jaden McDaniels.”
Fans mocked Edwards for comparing two players who were at different levels.
Speaking after today’s win, Edwards doubled down on his comments, noting that McDaniels is a vital player who steps up when the lights are on bright.
“Jaden is incredible. People kinda made fun of me like three years [sic] ago for my comments that I made about Jaden.”
“But, I mean, look at him. He’s been playing phenomenally. Every game. All year. Ups and downs, no matter what, he stays with us. Very coachable.”
Read More: Jaden McDaniels reveals strategy to stop Luka Doncic while scoring 30 points for Minnesota Timberwolves, ‘I was picking him…‘
Edwards wasn’t the only one to praise Jaden McDaniels after his 16-point double-double. Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch also applauded McDaniels for his outing.
The young star has become a vital cog in the Timberwolves’ machine. And he is considered one of their best two-way players.
McDaniels was heralded as a strong defender in the past, but has now become a reliable asset on both ends of the court.
If the Timberwolves do advance to the next round, he will be credited as playing a massive role for the team.