Edwards’ Last-Second Heroics Propel Timberwolves to Victory Over Kings

Anthony Edwards was the star of the show on Thursday night, sinking a duo of free throws with a mere 2.4 seconds left on the clock. This clutch performance helped the Minnesota Timberwolves ruin the Sacramento Kings’ season opener with a thrilling 117-115 victory.

Edwards’ Stellar Performance and Late-Game Drama

Edwards was fouled by the Kings’ Domantas Sabonis during a crucial drive with the game poised at a nail-biting tie. Displaying ice-cold nerves, Edwards sunk both free throws, raising his personal tally to an impressive 32 points. Keegan Murray’s desperate 3-point attempt for the Kings sadly bounced off the rim as the final buzzer sounded.

Randle’s Dominant Display for Timberwolves

Julius Randle, the Timberwolves’ star acquisition from New York earlier this month, led the scoring for his new team with a commanding 33-point performance. This was an assertive display from Randle, who had only attempted 10 shots in his first game for the Timberwolves.

DeRozan’s Strong Start for Kings

For the Kings, Demar DeRozan, another summer sign-and-trade acquisition, this time from Chicago, was the leading scorer with 26 points. Sabonis contributed 24 points, and Murray chipped in with 23.

Key Game Insights

The Timberwolves bounced back from a defeat to the Lakers earlier this week, achieving a split in their season-opening California trip. Meanwhile, Sacramento continues to struggle in season openers at home, extending their losing streak to six, with their last victory dating back to 2013 against Denver.

Pivotal Moments and Statistics

Edwards and Naz Reid sparked an 11-0 Minnesota run with consecutive 3-pointers, flipping a five-point deficit into a 105-99 lead midway through the final quarter. The Timberwolves also improved their long-range shooting, making 20 out of 50 attempts from beyond the arc, following a 13 for 41 performance in their opener. The 91 attempted 3s across the first two games of the season is a new franchise record.

What’s Next in NBA?

Up next for the Timberwolves is their home opener against the Toronto Raptors on Saturday night. The Kings, on the other hand, will travel to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers on the same day.