The Los Angeles Lakers enter the NBA playoffs as one of the strongest title contenders. They qualified as the third seed. Because of that, the franchise now ranks among the favorites to win it all. The team also regained its best form at the perfect time, just before the postseason. With this momentum, JJ Redick’s squad has fans hopeful for a deep run. Supporters believe this could be the year they bring another championship to Los Angeles. However, ahead of the matchup against the Timberwolves, NBA legend Magic Johnson made a surprising confession.
Magic Johnson didn’t hold back when expressing his concerns ahead of the Lakers’ upcoming clash with the Timberwolves. “I’m scared for my Lakers because the game’s most exciting player, superstar Anthony Edwards, is a matchup problem,” posted on X, former Twitter.
The Timberwolves have won three of their last five games against the Lakers. This recent record proves their ability to compete. Edwards has also established himself as one of the NBA’s top players. For that reason, his excellent form creates a serious threat to the Lakers’ defense.
In addition, the 23-year-old is averaging 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. These numbers mark the best season of his career. Additionally, he has been on fire lately. He scored 43 points or more in two of his last three games. But the problem for the Lakers is not just Edwards. Minnesota also have a complete roster and a strong defensive unit.
Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves celebrates during the second half in game one of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs against the Phoenix Suns at Target Center on April 20, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Magic Johnson did not stop at praising Edwards. He pointed to two more players who could be difference-makers. “If the Timberwolves beat my Lakers it’s because Naz Reid and Donte DiVenczo both have a big series. I’m picking my Lakers in 6, led by superstars LeBron James and Luka Doncic…Austin Reaves will be the third man in the ring for the Lakers and he has to have a big series as well as Rui Hachimara. Rui has to come up big for the Lakers to win.“
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Lakers legend Magic Johnson reflects on the day he turned down the deal of a lifetime
Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards opens up on facing LeBron James in the playoffs
LeBron James is 40 years old, but he remains a star for the Los Angeles Lakers. He ranks second on the team in scoring, with 24.4 points per game. He also averages 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists. That shows he is much more than a scorer. Because of that, Anthony Edwards was asked about facing the Lakers veteran in the playoffs. The Timberwolves star did not hold back praising LeBron James.
“It means a lot to matchup against him, man. Probably goes down as the greatest player to ever play basketball. Trying to get putting him out of the playoffs under my belt is going to be a tough one, but it’s going to be a fun road,“ stated Edwards as reported by Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.
Anthony Edwards is one of the NBA’s brightest young stars. Still, he recognizes LeBron James as the greatest player ever. Both were first overall picks and have managed to maintain a high level of performance over time. However, the age gap between them is striking. Edwards is just three years older than LeBron’s eldest son, Bronny.
Now, the challenge ahead is massive for Edwards. He must face not only the veteran LeBron but also Luka Doncic. The Slovenian star is currently playing at an elite level. This matchup will test Edwards’ talent, poise, and leadership under pressure.
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