Anthony Edwards' situation with the Timberwolves has taken a dramatic turn after the team acquired LaMelo Ball in a trade. On Thursday, league insider Evan Sidery warned that the move could force Edwards out of Minnesota if Ball's injury history continues.
What happened?
The Timberwolves traded for LaMelo Ball, the 2021 Rookie of the Year, in a deal that included Naz Reid and multiple draft picks. This move has raised questions about Edwards' future with the team.
The trade has been seen as a direct message to the rest of the league, with ESPN's Tim MacMahon saying it's a "swing" that tells other teams to back off. MacMahon also reported that Edwards was involved in the decision-making process and wanted the trade to happen.
Why it matters for Anthony Edwards
Edwards finished as Rookie of the Year runner-up to LaMelo Ball in 2021, and the two are now set to share a backcourt. However, Ball's injury history hangs over the deal, with him playing only 72 games last season.
The Timberwolves' front office believes the trade solves the real problem of Edwards' potential exit. ESPN insider Brian Windhorst reported that Edwards "wasn't the biggest Julius Randle fan" and had a "significant disconnect" with the forward.
What comes next?
The Ball trade is seen as a declaration that the Timberwolves intend to build a genuine contender around Edwards. Multiple sources close to Edwards have pushed back against speculation that he's unhappy with the team, saying he "loves Minnesota" and views the franchise as the "ideal" situation.
Tim Connelly, the Timberwolves' president of basketball operations, said he's had constant conversations with Edwards about the team's plans. Connelly reported that Edwards has "great wisdom" and is excited about the team's future.
The Timberwolves' move is a gamble, with Sidery warning that it could backfire if Ball's injuries continue. However, if Ball stays healthy, the trade could be a much-needed championship-type swing for the team.
Edwards and the Timberwolves will look to build on this momentum as they head into the new season. With the trade, the team has sent a clear message that they're committed to winning now and building around their young star.
The future of Anthony Edwards with the Timberwolves remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the team is all-in on winning with him. The question now is whether the gamble will pay off or if it will ultimately lead to Edwards' exit from Minnesota.