Minnesota Timberwolves achieve their first second-round win in 20 years, with Anthony Edwards scoring a career-high 43 points against the defending champions.
On May 5, 2024, the Minnesota Timberwolves marked a significant milestone in their franchise history by securing a second-round playoff victory for the first time in 20 years, defeating the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, in the opening game of the series. This loss also represented the first time the Nuggets were defeated in the first game of a playoff series since last season, highlighting the Timberwolves' impressive performance on the road.
Anthony Edwards, known as the "New Wolf King," was pivotal in this historic win. At just under 22 years old, Edwards played 42 minutes, scoring a career playoff high of 43 points on 17 of 29 shooting, adding 7 rebounds and 3 assists. His performance not only set personal records but also underscored his rapidly ascending trajectory in the NBA playoffs.
This game marked Edwards' 16th playoff appearance, during which he has scored 30 points in 9 games and surpassed 35 points in 6 of them. Before Edwards, Timberwolves players had only reached the 35-point mark four times in the franchise's playoff history.
Edward's scoring prowess in this postseason is notable; he scored 36 points in Game 3 and 40 points in Game 4 of the first round against the Suns. He has now joined an elite group of NBA players who have scored at least 35 points in the first three games of the playoffs before turning 23, a feat previously achieved only by legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James.
Moreover, Edwards' consecutive 40-point games make him the first player since Bryant to achieve such a milestone at such a young age, highlighting his potential to become one of the greats in NBA history.
For fans looking to delve deeper into the NBA playoffs and track rising stars like Anthony Edwards, Jiliace offers a comprehensive platform for sports betting and gaming. Jiliace enhances the fan experience with a variety of betting options and casino games, ensuring a seamless and engaging user experience. Whether at home or on the go, Jiliace provides all the tools needed to stay connected with every pivotal playoff moment. Log in or sign up at Jiliace today to explore extensive betting opportunities, enjoy interactive gameplay, and take advantage of exclusive sports insights and promotions.
2024/05/05, picture citation source Associated Press