Anthony Edwards has put the NBA on notice with a fiery preseason message, setting the tone for the Minnesota Timberwolves as they finalize their roster with new star LaMelo Ball. The team's preparation hit a snag in a 106-128 preseason loss to the Detroit Pistons on October 14, a result that followed a strong 122-104 win over the New York Knicks just two days prior.
Edwards, never one to mince words, made the team's mentality crystal clear in a social media clip. "We don't give a [expletive] about you. Ain’t no buddy-buddy [expletive] going on," the 25-year-old guard declared. His comments highlight an aggressive, us-against-the-world approach that Minnesota hopes will propel them among the Western Conference's elite.
The Timberwolves' preseason has been a mixed bag. Their 122-104 victory over the New York Knicks on October 12 was a highlight, fueled by Anthony Edwards' 26-point performance where he hit five three-pointers. However, consistency remains an issue.
That was evident in the 106-128 defeat to the Detroit Pistons on October 14. The team shot a poor 38.2% from the field. Edwards managed 20 points, three assists, and two steals, but LaMelo Ball struggled against physical defense, finishing with just three points and six assists in 18 minutes. The full preseason slate includes a tight 125-124 win over Miami, a 123-112 loss to Indiana, and a commanding 116-97 victory over Milwaukee.
The acquisition of LaMelo Ball is the franchise's biggest offseason move, creating a backcourt with explosive offensive potential. Ball's playmaking is supposed to free Edwards up to operate more off the ball, making Minnesota's attack less predictable and harder to defend. Both guards can create their own shot and score from anywhere on the floor.
But the Pistons game exposed a real challenge. Opponents are already targeting Ball with aggressive defensive schemes. After the loss, Edwards addressed it directly. "I invite it," he said, acknowledging the need to help his new teammate adjust. Head coach Chris Finch's primary task is building chemistry and finding solutions to that pressure before the real games begin.
The Timberwolves have one final preseason test to work out the kinks. They travel to face the Chicago Bulls in an away game on October 16. This contest is the last chance to refine the two-star system before the regular season kicks off.
All eyes will be on how Ball responds to physical play and how the team's offensive flow develops. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full upcoming schedule on our schedule page. Edwards's warning to the league is clear, but the immediate focus is on a strong response in Chicago to build momentum.
