Anthony Edwards makes declaration ahead of Game 3 against Mavericks

Apr 26, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) dribbles against the Phoenix Suns during the first half of game three of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Anthony Edwards is declaring it to be Anthony Edwards time.

Speaking with reporters on Sunday ahead of his team’s game later that day against the Dallas Mavericks, the Minnesota Timberwolves star Edwards made a key statement. He said that he will be much more aggressive in Game 3 and get plenty more shot attempts up.

“Y’all going to see tonight … It’s going to be a lot of shots,” said Edwards, per Dave McMenamin of ESPN.

With Minnesota now down 0-2 in the series (having lost the first two games at home), they definitely need a much more assertive Edwards. The 22-year-old star did shoot 17 times in Game 2 on Friday but made just five of those attempts and often deferred to backcourt partner Mike Conley to initiate offense down the stretch of the fourth quarter.

Edwards has one of the best first steps in the league, and his ability to put pressure on the rim could open up a lot more looks for his teammates if he is aggressive from the start in Game 3. While the Dallas defense can counter by hard-doubling Edwards and forcing him to pass the ball, a more Edwards-heavy offense may be the right adjustment for Minnesota (especially after Edwards was roasted online for his Game 2 performance).