TITLE: NBA Notes: Edwards Targets Title Run, Blazers Extend Camara and Sharpe, Thunder Win Thriller on Ring Night
SLUG: nba-notes-edwards-blazers-thunder-updates
CONTENT:
MINNEAPOLIS — Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards says two straight appearances in the Western Conference Finals are not enough. In a profile by The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski, the 23-year-old emphasized his determination to push Minnesota to an NBA championship while expanding his leadership role. The club listed Edwards as questionable for Wednesday’s season opener in Portland because of back spasms.
Trail Blazers
Portland is investing in its future on two fronts. The team reached a four-year, $81 million extension with forward Toumani Camara, a deal described by Rose Garden Report’s Sean Highkin as fair value for a rising two-way contributor. Fellow wing Shaedon Sharpe secured a four-year, $90 million contract. Highkin called the Sharpe agreement a calculated gamble, noting the 22-year-old’s All-Star ceiling but inconsistent production on both ends of the floor. The Blazers are betting that Sharpe evolves into the primary scorer of their next era.
Thunder
ESPN’s Zach Kram examined whether Oklahoma City’s championship window is opening wider or already at its peak. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in MVP form, Jalen Williams steadily improving, and Chet Holmgren anchoring the defense, the defending champions believe they have more room to grow. On Tuesday’s ring night, the Thunder validated that confidence by edging Houston in double overtime, 128-127, to begin their title defense.
Source: Hoops Wire
