The Los Angeles Lakers are set to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday at Crypto.com Arena, revisiting a playoff matchup that ended last season in Minnesota’s favor. One of the Lakers’ key adjustments this year is relying on Marcus Smart to contain Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards.
After Thursday’s practice, Smart discussed the defensive challenge he expects against Edwards. “He’s a big guard, it’s gonna take a full team effort. But my job when I’m on him is just try to make everything as tough as possible,” Smart said, via ClutchPoints.
Smart acknowledged that the game will be physical and competitive. “It’s gonna be a great battle. He’s a great player, I’m a great defender. My job is to make it as hard as possible for him,” he added.
Edwards is coming off a strong season opener against the Portland Trail Blazers, scoring 41 points on 50% shooting, including five 3-pointers. The Timberwolves guard also grabbed seven rebounds and contributed defensively with a block and a steal in the 118-114 victory.
For the Lakers, Smart played 23 minutes in their season-opening loss to the Golden State Warriors, recording nine points, four rebounds, and one steal. With LeBron James sidelined until mid-November and other forwards unavailable, Smart’s defensive role against Edwards becomes even more crucial.
The Lakers hope Smart’s intensity and experience as a perimeter defender can help contain Edwards, who averaged over 27.6 points per game last season.
Minnesota enters the game healthy, with no reported injuries, while the Lakers will be without Maxi Kleber, Adou Thiero, and LeBron James. Smart stressed that defensive success will require collective effort, not just individual effort.
“We’ve got to be disciplined, communicate, and help each other out. It’s a team game on that end,” Smart said.
