Anthony Edwards makes history as Timberwolves eliminate Warriors

For a franchise that has long experienced playoff struggles, Minnesota’s latest triumph marks a new era. 

Edwards, alongside co-stars Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert, has powered a Timberwolves team that has now eliminated three perennial contenders across two postseason runs: LeBron James’ Lakers, Nikola Jokic’s Nuggets and Steph Curry’s Warriors — though the latter series had been marred by key injuries.

In Game 5, Edwards delivered a complete performance, recording 22 points, seven rebounds, 12 assists, a steal and three blocks, including five made three-pointers. He attacked the rim with ferocity, knocked down timely shots and set the tone with his trademark swagger.

Randle led all scorers with 29 points on 13-of-18 shooting, adding eight rebounds and five assists. His dominant presence helped seal the Timberwolves' series-clinching victory. Minnesota now awaits the winner of the Denver Nuggets–Oklahoma City Thunder series.

The Warriors, already without Curry, who had been sidelined since Game 1, relied on their younger core. Brandin Podziemski scored a playoff career-high 28 points, while Jonathan Kuminga added 26 off the bench. 

Jimmy Butler, acquired midseason, contributed 17 points, six rebounds, six assists and three steals in the losing effort. The Warriors will now look to rebuild ahead of next season.

As Minnesota advances, one thing is certain: Edwards' name now sits comfortably among the most prolific young scorers in playoff history, and if his trajectory holds, the best is still yet to come.