Anthony Edwards refused to sub out during Wolves-Lakers game
Just before halftime of the Timberwolves’ 108-106 home victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, Anthony Edwards picked up his third foul of the game.
It appeared as though Wolves coach Chris Finch went to sub him out, but Edwards instead stayed on the court until the halftime break. Asked about the incident postgame, Finch confirmed that was indeed what had happened.
“Wanted to sub him out, he stayed in, it’s been addressed and there will be no more comment about it,” Finch said.
Edwards took responsibility for the incident postgame, saying it was “my fault.”
Edwards went on to score 31 points in the Wolves’ narrow victory, but the game wasn’t without more late drama.
Jaden McDaniels fouled LeBron James on a made shot in the paint that cut the Lakers’ deficit to five points. Then McDaniels picked up a technical foul after the call, giving the Lakers a technical free throw, James’ free throw from the made shot and the ball.
Asked if that was a learning moment for McDaniels, Finch said it needs to be.
“He’s been good for the bulk of the season with his emotional control, but this is inexcusable for sure,” Finch said.
Austin Reaves made the technical free throw, James made his and he nearly made a 3-pointer that would’ve tied the game at 107-107. But the shot was ruled a 2 instead of a 3, and the call stood upon video review, much to James’ chagrin, and the Wolves stayed in front 107-106.
Edwards hit a free throw after being fouled on the ensuing inbounds pass, and the Wolves were able to prevent James from getting his game-tying shot attempt off in time and hung on for the victory. Minnesota is now 14-1 in downtown Minneapolis.
