The Minnesota Timberwolves’ season ended in abrupt and lopsided fashion on Wednesday night, as the Oklahoma City Thunder clinched the Western Conference title with a 124-94 blowout in Game 5.
Anthony Edwards didn’t offer excuses after the loss.
“They came ready to play. We didn’t,” Edwards said during his postgame press conference. “When you lose a game like this, it’s not really too much to break down.”
Minnesota fell behind early and never recovered, scoring just nine points in the first quarter and trailing by 33 at halftime.
When asked why the Timberwolves weren’t prepared, Edwards replied, “I don’t know. They dominated the game from the tip… So good job by them.”
Despite finishing with 19 points, Edwards struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just 1-of-7 threes, as the Wolves committed 21 turnovers and allowed the Thunder to shoot over 52% from the field.
He admitted it was too soon to assess personal growth from the series.
“I don’t know. Good question… I haven’t really thought about it yet,” he said.
Veteran guard Mike Conley, who went scoreless in 21 minutes, reflected on the team’s progress and adversity throughout the year.
“We overcame a lot to get to this point… Nobody thought we’d be in this situation,” Conley said. “Obviously, it hurts right now.”
When asked what it’s been like playing alongside Conley, Edwards responded, “It’s been great. Love Mike. Call him OG. Disappointed we couldn’t make it happen for him again this year.”
He also dismissed any notion that the loss would linger negatively for him personally.
“It’s exciting for me. I’m 23. I get to do it a whole bunch of times,” Edwards said. “I’m hurt more so not for myself, for Mike.”
Edwards praised Oklahoma City’s strategy and personnel, noting their defensive pressure and versatility.
“They got a small lineup they throw out there… They pressure the ball to get you out of your comfort zone,” he said.
“They were the better team. They came out, beat us, punched us in the face,” he added. “We lost. That’s all that matters.”
Looking ahead, Edwards promised to use the offseason as motivation.
“Nobody’s going to work harder than me this summer, I tell you that much,” he stated.
As Oklahoma City prepares for the NBA Finals, Minnesota’s young core will regroup, aiming to return deeper and better next year.
