24YO Timberwolves Star Compensates Anthony Edwards’ ‘Disappearance’ – 3 Takeaways as Luka Doncic Rendered Helpless in Kyrie Irving’s Absence

Published 12/14/2023, 11:30 PM EST

The Minnesota Timberwolves triumphed over the Dallas Mavericks with 119-101. Not having Kyrie Irving tonight didn’t look to be too much of an issue initially for Luka Doncic. The Mavs were off to a terrific start while the Wolves looked like lost sheep.

The way Anthony Edwards played for the Timberwolves, it looked as if he wasn’t even there. He was there for almost 35 minutes but failed to make any impact. In a lackluster performance, he scored a mere nine points. However, Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker came off the bench for a stunning performance that ultimately saved the day. Here are the key takeaways from tonight’s game.

1. Luka Doncic finds no help in Kyrie Irving’s absence

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Doncic had a hard time keeping it together against the Timberwolves. While the man in question managed to put up 39 points, six rebounds, 13 assists, and two steals, his team looked weary from the three games they played in four nights. Not having Irving was the biggest blow.

Unfortunately, Kyrie’s right heel contusion is a real headache. Tim Hardaway Jr. couldn’t provide Doncic much help either. The back spasms that kept him away seem to have left a deeper effect. Scoring 10 points on 4-15 shooting, he was a -30 in 32 minutes of game time.

2. Is Anthony Edwards worthy of challenging LeBron James and Michael Jordan?

Seeing Edwards’ performance tonight, many would outright reject even the idea of such a claim. Playing 35 minutes, he managed to notch just nine points. To be completely fair, one might probably point out that the hip injury sustained by ANT could be the reason for his struggles.

He did manage to provide 11 assists and two rebounds. Everybody knows that Anthony Edwards isn’t lacking in the confidence department. So his outrageous claims from time to time have become a common occurrence. But his most recent remarks about Michael Jordan and LeBron James shocked everyone.

Often compared to Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant for his shooting skills, the 22-year-old dismissed the “Black Cat” with two words when asked if he would be able to guard him. “Hell nah,” was his response. In another bout of swagger, the “Ant-Man” describes his wish to go one-on-one with the Lakers legend, LeBron James.

3. The Timberwolves seem to be contenders while the Mavs crumble in the superstars’ absence

Minnesota seemed to be in hibernation mode, starting the game. But they were quick to shake it off. With Anthony Edwards back in the lineup, everybody thought he would be leading the game. But it was the 24-year-old Naz Reid who stepped up in Edwards’ absence (figuratively, of course).

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The first half alone saw Reid scoring 19 of his season-high 27 points. He also showcased an impressive three-point shooting, landing all seven of his 3-pointers. Karl-Anthony Towns rallied behind him to post 21 points and another season-high 17 rebounds.

But Dallas only managed to survive behind Luka Doncic. Taking the second position behind Luka in points, Dereck Lively II contributed 15 and six rebounds. Another noteworthy performance was from Dante Exum. Starting the fifth consecutive game, Exum posted 14 points, four rebounds, and assists each.

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Clearly, Irving’s absence hit them at the worst possible time.

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“Not only is there more to life than basketball, there’s a lot more to basketball than basketball” - Jackson had a simple philosophy when he was coaching the Lakers. He wanted everyone to succeed and grow in the service of something bigger than themselves. This is what struck me the most.

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24YO Timberwolves Star Compensates Anthony Edwards’ ‘Disappearance’ – 3 Takeaways as Luka Doncic Rendered Helpless in Kyrie Irving’s Absence

1. Luka Doncic finds no help in Kyrie Irving’s absence

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2. Is Anthony Edwards worthy of challenging LeBron James and Michael Jordan?

3. The Timberwolves seem to be contenders while the Mavs crumble in the superstars’ absence