Ant seeks Jordan’s guidance as Timberwolves chase breakthrough
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MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards said Monday he reached out to Michael Jordan during the offseason for pointers that could push his game to a new level in 2025-26.
Speaking on the first day of team media availability, Edwards explained that a mutual acquaintance connected him with the six-time NBA champion. Jordan’s tips, he said, focused on creating space, elevating over defenders and using the upper back—not the hips—to gain leverage in the post.
“Most guys lean with their butt, and he does it with the top part of his back,” Edwards noted, pointing to his right shoulder while describing the adjustment.
Sharpening late-game offense
Edwards struggled from long range in last season’s Western Conference finals, hitting 11 of 39 three-point attempts as Minnesota fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games. He said improving in clutch moments and attacking the rim more aggressively are priorities heading into his fifth NBA season.
Coach Chris Finch added that enhanced playmaking and night-to-night consistency could put the 23-year-old All-Star in the MVP conversation. “He’s got to execute the plays in front of him and be that every-night player,” Finch said, praising Edwards’ increased film study and offseason conditioning.
Emphasis on chemistry
Seven of the Timberwolves’ top eight scorers returned, and most of the roster stayed in Minnesota over the summer. Edwards and newly acquired forward Julius Randle played frequent one-on-one games to refine spacing and timing. “Winning starts with being together, and it starts in the summertime,” Edwards said. “We can’t wait until the All-Star break to become a team.”
While Oklahoma City remains a playoff hurdle, Edwards also highlighted the Denver Nuggets — who added Cameron Johnson and other pieces — as another Western Conference threat. “I think it’s a whole bunch of teams that got better,” he said.
Looking ahead
Edwards acknowledged that MVP consideration will hinge on Minnesota’s record and a substantial scoring average, yet insisted winning is his main goal. As for his budding link to Jordan, he tempered expectations. “We don’t really have the relationship y’all think we’ve got right now,” Edwards said. “It’ll come.”
Source: ESPN
