Anthony Edwards Takes Accountability For The Timberwolves' Game 1 Loss

This was unlike Edwards' performance in Game 7 against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round because he was still in control of that game through his playmaking. That did not happen in this game because the Timberwolves were off their rhythm.

Coach Chris Finch was baffled about what happened with his team to the point that he called out Anthony Edwards' lack of energy. Ant disagrees with the energy comment, but he admits he did not have the best performance.

Edwards Knows He Must Bounce Back In Game 2

Ant was not only struggling from three because he was also missing point-blank shots at the rim. This was very uncharacteristic because most expect him to be a standout slasher. 

Edwards is not looking at why they lost, but he wants to show improvements in Game 2. That is a forward-thinking mentality for Ant and his teammates because they already know what they must address in their performances.

"You know when you lose a game, it's always somebody got this, somebody got that, this is the reason you lost, I don't really look at that," Edwards said in his press conference after Game 1. "I just look at every last one of us gotta play better individually, including myself." 

A Positive Approach To Game 2

Having the mindset to be critical of himself is important, but since he is the leader, the rest of the team must also bounce back. It was an uncharacteristic performance for the Timberwolves because they had been superb in the second half of the season.

This was a return to form from the earlier part of the season when they struggled. Now that they know what they must do, the Timberwolves will be a tough team to play against in Game 2.

Rebounding will also be a point of emphasis because they were out-rebounded 33 to 29. That may not look like a significant lead, but the offensive rebounds tell a different story because the Warriors out-hustled them with 18 offensive rebounds to the Timberwolves' 13.

By being more driven to perform in Game 2, the Timberwolves can win and tie the series at one win apiece. They must have a better approach to Game 2 because they do not want the Warriors to take charge of the series.