Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota Timberwolves with 39 points in Monday’s 137-128 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies but acknowledged defensive shortcomings. “Defensive intensity kind of wasn’t there tonight,” Edwards said.
The guard admitted fatigue played a role. “I don’t know, John. I’m tired. We didn’t have it,” he said when asked about the team’s effort on defense.
Edwards emphasized accountability for self-inflicted errors. “It’s definitely on us. We knew everything they was going to do. They just played a little better with a little better pace than us,” he added.
Regarding offensive decisions, Edwards reflected on shot selection. “A couple times I settled for a three-pointer when I could have got to the rim,” he said.
He also addressed defensive execution and fundamentals. “Just knowing the scout report. We talked about fouling. Knowing what hand these guys like to use. Staying in front of the ball. Just little things like that,” Edwards explained.
On matching Memphis’ physicality, Edwards noted the need for resilience. “Just be physical back on the defensive end. Finish strong. Play through it,” he said.
Edwards acknowledged the challenge of maintaining energy late in the season. “Around this time a lot of teams’ players are tired. If we are tired, we got to know what the team want to do so we can be there step for them,” he said.
Despite the loss, Edwards remained optimistic about the team’s outlook. “I feel good. We just lost a game we supposed to win. It happens, man. It’s the NBA. We’ll be back. We’ll be all right,” he said.
Minnesota trailed by 20 in the second half despite strong performances from Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, and Jaden McDaniels. Memphis’ Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 30 points and Ty Jerome added 19 as the Grizzlies snapped a six-game losing streak.
