Timberwolves president reveals Anthony Edwards’ power behind the scenes

The Minnesota Timberwolves did some roster remodeling this offseason, sending away Naz Reid and a slew of draft assets to the Charlotte Hornets to bring LaMelo Ball in to pair him up with Anthony Edwards in the backcourt. To create space for this deal, the Timberwolves traded Julius Randle away, which has now stripped Minnesota of its considerable depth in the frontcourt.

Ball is only 24 years of age, and the Timberwolves, after falling short in the playoffs for four consecutive years, are betting on his upside as a game-changing presence. He will make things easier for Edwards on the offensive end, and as long as he stays healthy, he should form a dynamic duo with his 2020 NBA Draft mate for years to come.

It looks as though Edwards had a bit of a say in the Timberwolves’ moves this offseason, as president Tim Connelly mentioned to Dan Barreiro of Minnesota sports radio station KFAN that Edwards has “as big a voice” as anybody in the building regarding roster decisions.

It is important to note that Connelly also mentioned that Edwards has “long talked about” the former Hornets guard and what a “great addition” he would be.

The NBA is a star-driven league, and it is imperative, now more than ever, to make the most out of a superstar’s stay with the franchise. After all, there is so much player movement due to the increasing hesitation of teams to dive deep into the luxury tax out of fear of going into the second apron, and the Timberwolves are looking to capitalize on their contending window by giving Edwards a team he feels he can compete with.

Minnesota’s trade for Ball, however, exacted a huge cost. They sent away their unprotected pick in 2033 as well as pick swaps in 2028, 2029, and 2030, so they only now control their picks in two of the next seven years. Ball has a considerable injury history as well, so the Timberwolves are betting that his health holds up for the long haul.