Chris Finch Says There's Something Different About Anthony Edwards

Published: Monday, July 13, 2026 at 5:46 pm

Edwards Poised for Breakthrough Season Amidst Timberwolves' Championship Aspirations

As the Minnesota Timberwolves gear up for the 2026-27 NBA season, a palpable sense of anticipation surrounds star guard Anthony Edwards. Fresh off his fourth consecutive All-Star selection, Edwards is entering his seventh year with the franchise, and according to Head Coach Chris Finch, something feels distinctly different about his approach this season.

The acquisition of former Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball in a significant trade has injected considerable excitement into the Timberwolves' outlook. This blockbuster move has created what many believe to be one of the league's most dynamic backcourt pairings, fueling championship aspirations for the upcoming campaign.

In a recent interview, Coach Finch highlighted a newfound level of engagement from Edwards. "He's engaged in a way like I've not seen," Finch stated, attributing this shift to a confluence of factors. The prospect of playing alongside Ball is undoubtedly a significant contributor, but Finch also pointed to Edwards' personal maturation and a deeper understanding of the team's current standing and needs.

Finch elaborated that Edwards appears to be more broadly invested in the sport itself. "He's looking, he's watching," Finch observed, suggesting that Edwards may have previously lacked the confidence to fully articulate his insights. Now, however, he is described as "way more communicative, and it's fun."

Last season, Edwards showcased his offensive prowess by averaging a career-high 28.8 points per game. His stellar performance was instrumental in guiding the Timberwolves to the sixth seed in the Western Conference. The team demonstrated its potential by defeating the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the playoffs, though their postseason run ultimately concluded in the second round against the San Antonio Spurs.

BNN's Perspective: The convergence of Anthony Edwards' apparent personal growth and the strategic addition of LaMelo Ball presents a compelling narrative for the Timberwolves. If Edwards' heightened engagement translates into on-court leadership and a more cohesive team dynamic, Minnesota could indeed be a formidable contender. The team's trajectory hinges on the successful integration of its star talent and the continued development of its key players.

Tags: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, Chris Finch, LaMelo Ball, NBA season, All-Star, championship aspirations, point guard, backcourt, playoffs, Western Conference

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