Edwards should be a lifer in Minnesota, but the Timberwolves need to make moves.
Two years ago, Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns were running mates in Minnesota trying to chase a title together.
Now Towns is playing in the NBA Finals with the New York Knicks, and Edwards is heading into an offseason full of questions after the Timberwolves went 49-33, finished sixth in the Western Conference, and were knocked out in the second round by the San Antonio Spurs in six games.
That exit came after back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances in 2024 and 2025, and the drop-off has put a spotlight on whether this roster can keep its 24-year-old franchise star happy going forward.
The No. 1 pick in the 2020 draft averaged 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 61 games while shooting 48.9 percent from the field and 39.9 percent from three, all career highs.
But a knee hyperextension and bone bruise from the first round against Denver clearly limited him against San Antonio, and Donte DiVincenzo's torn Achilles left the backcourt short-handed when it mattered most.
Windhorst Raises the Alarm
ESPN's Brian Windhorst added fuel to the fire during the NBA Finals when he said on "First Take" that "the Minnesota Timberwolves' future is in question somewhat because of what Ant feels about the roster."
Windhorst also wondered whether Edwards would feel differently if Towns were still in Minnesota, and watching his former teammate thrive alongside Jalen Brunson has reportedly not sat well with the four-time All-Star and 2026 All-Star Game MVP.
Edwards has three years left on his deal at roughly $48.9 million, $52.3 million and $55.7 million, so he cannot force his way out right now...right?
But Minnesota knows that keeping its franchise player happy is the only path forward in a small market, and letting frustration build is how teams lose guys they cannot replace.
What Moves Would Make Minnesota a True Contender
The biggest gap on the roster is at point guard.
Mike Conley plans to return, but he will be 39 by opening night.
Ayo Dosunmu gave the team a lift after being acquired from Chicago at the deadline, and bringing him back matters, but Minnesota needs more than a mid-season pickup to compete at the top of the West.
Names like Ja Morant and Darius Garland have come up as trade targets, and team president Tim Connelly is reportedly ready to swing for the fences this summer.
Julius Randle, who put up 21.1 points, 6.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game across 79 games, could be part of a trade package alongside Rudy Gobert if the right deal comes along.
Minnesota also holds the No. 28 pick in the draft, and adding a young guard who can contribute right away would help fill the gap left by DiVincenzo's injury.
Edwards has made it clear through his play and reportedly through his words that this roster needs more around him.
Minnesota's job this summer is a direct one. Give Edwards a reason to stay.
