Wolves' Anthony Edwards sends bold message ahead of crucial final stretch before playoffs

The Minnesota Timberwolves suffered a tough blow Tuesday night, falling 110–103 to the Milwaukee Bucks in a game with serious NBA playoff implications. After controlling much of the contest, the Wolves saw a 24-point lead evaporate in the fourth quarter—dealing a major setback to their postseason positioning in the tightly packed Western Conference. Star guard Anthony Edwards shared his thoughts after the loss.

“As tough as that fourth quarter was, we’re not hanging our heads,” Edwards said. “We’re good. It’s part of the game. Of course we didn’t want to lose, but we can’t be in bad spirits because we need to win the next game.”

That next game looms large. With the Western Conference playoff picture as crowded as ever, Edwards understands the stakes. “The team we play next—it’s like we’re fighting for a playoff spot,” he added. “Next game is bigger than this one.”

Edwards finished with 25 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, but his efforts weren’t enough to stop Milwaukee’s furious rally. The loss snapped Minnesota’s five-game winning streak and marked one of the biggest comebacks in Bucks franchise history—a deflating result for a team trying to build momentum in the final stretch.

Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves brings the ball up court during the second quarter against the Brooklyn Nets

Edwards reflects on costly collapse

The Timberwolves appeared to be in total control, leading the Bucks 95–71 with just 10 minutes remaining at Fiserv Forum. Then came Milwaukee’s defensive switch—a zone scheme that completely disrupted Minnesota’s offense. “It was hard for any of us to get a good look when they went zone,” Edwards admitted postgame. “It messed us up.”

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Coach Chris Finch breaks down the fourth-quarter meltdown

Following the collapse, head coach Chris Finch chose not to assign blame, instead crediting the Bucks for their execution—and reminding everyone they’re the reigning NBA Cup champions, having beaten the Oklahoma City Thunder for the title.

“It was the zone, of course,” Finch explained. “We have to have better spacing. Everyone kept creeping up to the top of the floor wanting the ball. Didn’t give us any opportunities to drive into the gap.”

Finch also pointed out that the majority of Milwaukee’s three-pointers came during that decisive final stretch. “The bulk of the threes they made were in the fourth quarter—right when they needed them,” he said, frustration clear in his voice.

Missed chances with Gobert prove costly

The loss also shined a light on missed opportunities to involve center Rudy Gobert. Finch noted the Wolves failed to capitalize on several chances to feed him during key stretches. “I thought we missed him on some rolls and dives,” Finch said.

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As the Timberwolves head into their final NBA regular-season games, correcting those breakdowns will be critical if they want to avoid slipping in the standings—and ensure their postseason fate stays in their own hands.