Anthony Edwards, despite twisting his ankle, scored 31 points to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to a decisive 119-100 victory over the Utah Jazz during Saturday’s NBA action. In his return to Utah, Mike Conley contributed a season-high 25 points, making the game an unforgettable encounter for players and fans.
“Somebody’s got to step up every night. It may always look like me, but tonight it was also Mike,” said Edwards, who passed Kevin Love for the most 30-point games in a single season with 26.
Edwards faced a setback just before halftime when he twisted his ankle but managed to stay in the game by keeping it warm and jumping rope during the break. His determination saw him through the second half, albeit with slightly diminished speed and explosiveness.
“Just had to keep it warm,” Edwards said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz Updates
The Timberwolves’ strategy to let the game flow and find teammates allowed Edwards to overcome his injury and significantly contribute to the team’s victory.
“Just let the game come to you,” Edwards said. “I was forcing it a little bit but in the second half I found Mike Conley, found Naz (Reid) and Nickeil (Alexander-Walker). Then it made it easy for me to score.”
Conley’s performance was also a highlight, marking his first game back in Utah since his trade to Minnesota. His highest-scoring output with the Timberwolves was a testament to his aggressive play and adaptability.
“It’s a perfect storm, trying to fill in for guys and it’s given me a good rhythm. I’ve been aggressive looking for my shots more, getting to the paint more and getting to the free throw line,” said Conley, who made five 3s.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz Updates
Despite efforts from Collin Sexton and Keyonte George, the Jazz could not keep pace with the Timberwolves’ offensive onslaught. Utah coach Will Hardy criticized the team’s lack of passing and cohesion.
“Plain and simple tonight, we did not pass the ball. There’s 30 possessions where you can point out where there’s multiple people open and we’re just forcing it. We’ve got to get back to the understanding of who we’re playing, understanding how they want to guard,” Hardy said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz Updates
The Timberwolves’ victory was secured in the fourth quarter, with Edwards and Conley playing crucial roles in expanding their lead and fending off any comeback attempts by the Jazz.
“Ant is aggressive and we have a ton of spacing out there particularly without Rudy (Gobert) being on the floor. So it opens up all kinds of things … but what’s been pleasing these last two games is his efficiency,” Timberwolves coach Chris Finch said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz Updates
With this win, the Timberwolves continue to show their potential in the absence of key players, while the Jazz face the challenge of regrouping and addressing their gameplay issues as they look ahead to their next matchup.
