During Game 4, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves and LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers engaged in an intense and physical battle, highlighting the contrasting stages of their careers. Edwards, known for his competitive nature, exchanged shoves with James during the game.
“It’s going to be physical, man,” Edwards told reporters after the Timberwolves’ 116-113 victory. “Just letting him know that we’re here. You ain’t just gonna push us around all night… Just trying to be a pest to him out there.”
Anthony Edwards to the Los Angeles Lakers: “You ain’t just gonna push us around all night.”
Despite his on-court competitiveness, Edwards, at 23, expressed respect for the 39-year-old James. “We played together for USA and he was like a big brother to me,” Edwards said. “He looked out for me, helped me out a lot, read the game, IQ and everything. Just trying to be a pest to him out there.”
Edwards’ performance in Game 4 was exceptional. He scored 43 points, contributing significantly to the Timberwolves’ win and giving them a 3-1 series lead. James recorded 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Luka Dončić added 38 points. Edwards’ 43-point game marked his fifth 40-point game before the age of 25, a feat achieved by only James and Dončić.
Edwards’ leadership has been instrumental in the Timberwolves’ recent success. A year ago, he led the team to their first playoff series win since 2004, and following his performance on Sunday, the Timberwolves are on the verge of reaching the second round again.
Edwards will look to maintain his aggressive approach against James and the Lakers in the upcoming game.