Tue May 27 00:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Timberwolves’ Turnaround Fueled by Anthony Edwards’ Positivity After Game 2 Loss

**MINNEAPOLIS, MN** – After a demoralizing Game 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder that put the Minnesota Timberwolves down 2-0 in the Western Conference Finals, it would have been easy for the team to lose hope. However, Timberwolves’ star Anthony Edwards stepped up as a leader, injecting positivity and energy into the team that sparked a stunning 42-point victory in Game 3.

According to Coach Chris Finch, Edwards’ infectious attitude was the catalyst for the team’s turnaround. “He was one of the most positive voices after Game 2,” Finch said, praising Edwards’ leadership. “The leadership that [Edwards] has shown this season is up by leaps and bounds. It’s just another example of it.”

Teammates echoed Finch’s sentiments, highlighting Edwards’ ability to keep spirits high even after a tough loss. Naz Reid noted that it’s hard to stay down around Edwards, whose boundless energy never leads to negativity.

Edwards’ influence extended to Julius Randle, who was benched in the fourth quarter of Game 2. Edwards approached Randle on the plane back to Minneapolis, encouraging him to maintain a positive outlook. Randle responded admirably, focusing on what was best for the team. “I wanted to make sure I came back the same, whether it’s a good day or a bad day,” Randle stated.

The shift in attitude translated to on-court success. Edwards led the charge with 30 points in 30 minutes, while Randle contributed 24 points on efficient shooting. Jaden McDaniels played stellar defense against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Naz Reid broke out of his shooting slump.

With the series now at 2-1, the Timberwolves have regained momentum heading into a crucial Game 4 on Monday. Coach Finch believes the team’s improved mentality, sparked by Edwards’ leadership, will continue to make a difference. “I never sensed a loss of confidence in our team, I just sensed frustration,” Finch said. “They really had a good mentality after these last few days. That made a difference.”

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