Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards has already taken heat for his actions in the team’s playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers, then generated some new controversy before Game 2 even tipped off.
In the hours before Tuesday’s Game 2, the NBA announced that Edwards had been fined $50,000 for inappropriate language and an obscene gesture toward a fan during Minnesota’s Game 1 win. Edwards was responding to a fan after teammate Rudy Gobert was heckled during the game, with video showing him making a crude comment and lewd gesture.
The Timberwolves star sparked more controversy in the next game. As both teams were warming up before Tuesday’s Game 2, video showed Edwards walking to the Lakers’ side of the floor and chirping Doncic.
Some fans questioned why Edwards would risk motivating the Lakers after the Timberwolves already scored an upset win in Game 1.
“Why give them bulletin board material. At least get up 2-0,” a fan
wrote on X
.
“Antman better stop poking the bear,”
another wrote
.
But other fans had no problem with Edwards, saying his actions add more intrigue to the series.
Edwards’ teammates don’t seem to have a problem with his aggressive approach. Timberwolves forward Naz Reid said he’s impressed with how the 23-year-old has assumed such a big leadership role.
“How he’s been leading, as young as he is, it’s kind of crazy to me,” Reid said,
via The Athletic
. “You would think he’s 30. Like, seriously. Just how vocal he is, he wants to win. You can tell. He’s desperate. And he wants his teammates to do well as well.”
Related: Anthony Edwards Punished by NBA for What He Did During Timberwolves-Lakers
