The Timberwolves saw Victor Wembanyama deliver his best playoff performance yet in Game 3 on Friday night.
The Spurs star finished with 39 points, 15 rebounds and five blocks, controlling the game at both ends of the floor during the 115-108 win.
After that statement display, star guard Anthony Edwards offered a clear glimpse of the problem the Frenchman is creating for Minnesota.
Anthony Edwards explains Victor Wembanyama problem
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
Edwards was asked why the Timberwolves’ offence has looked different against San Antonio compared to the regular season.
His answer pointed straight to Wembanyama, whose size, reach and timing are forcing Minnesota to rethink how it attacks the rim.
“They got somebody who is 7 ft 6 on the floor [Wembanyama], and he takes up a lot of space,” Edwards said.
“So, we are just trying to figure out ways to find an open man around him, because in the paint he’s just everywhere.”
That explanation summed up the challenge. Wembanyama does not only block shots, he changes passing lanes, delays drives and makes simple finishes feel rushed.
Anthony Edwards still kept Timberwolves alive
Edwards still produced a strong individual response. He finished Game 3 with 32 points, 14 rebounds and six assists.
That kept Minnesota competitive, but it was not enough to stop Wembanyama and a Spurs team growing in confidence.
Still, the series is not gone for the Timberwolves. A win in their next home game would send it back to San Antonio tied at 2-2.
That makes the next adjustment crucial. Minnesota do not need to solve Wembanyama completely, but they must make his presence less suffocating.
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