Randle Shines After Edwards Leaves Early; Watson Looks Ahead to Free Agency; Jazz Highlight Playmaking Size
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MINNEAPOLIS — October 27, 2025 — Power forward Julius Randle carried Minnesota’s offense after All-Star guard Anthony Edwards exited Sunday’s home opener with right hamstring tightness, finishing with 31 points on 11-for-18 shooting and six assists in a 108-104 victory over Indiana.
Edwards was hit on a layup just 3:07 into the first quarter and was ruled out shortly afterward. Head coach Chris Finch had no postgame update, and the Timberwolves face a quick turnaround with Denver visiting tonight.
“The ball is going to find me a little bit more,” Randle said. “If they guard me straight up, I try to score; if they help or double, I trust my teammates.”
Center Naz Reid expressed optimism about Edwards’ status. “Having Ant is a luxury, but I think he’ll be all right. I think he’ll play tomorrow,” Reid said.
Randle on Re-Signing with Minnesota
In a conversation with Mark Medina of Essentially Sports, Randle explained that his offseason decision to re-sign was heavily influenced by Finch, who helped him adjust after last season’s unexpected trade from New York. “He wanted me here. That’s my guy. I’ll ride with Finch all day,” Randle stated.
Watson Unconcerned After Extension Deadline Passes
Nuggets wing Peyton Watson did not secure a rookie-scale extension before the league deadline. Speaking with The Denver Post, Watson said Denver’s cap limitations—tightened further after Christian Braun’s five-year, $125 million deal—made an agreement impractical. “You’ve gotta operate based on what’s best for your business,” Watson noted, adding that he plans to take the same approach as a restricted free agent next summer.
Jazz Embrace Passing Big Men
The Utah Jazz are emphasizing frontcourt playmaking, according to The Deseret News. Lauri Markkanen, Jusuf Nurkic, Kevin Love and rookie Kyle Filipowski have all shown the ability to create for teammates, while center Walker Kessler is working to expand his passing repertoire.
Source: Hoops Rumors
