Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards produces 15 points in first NBA start

Down a few key players, the Timberwolves on Friday opted to go with rookie Anthony Edwards in the starting lineup versus the 76ers.

On Friday, rookie Anthony Edwards earned his first career start in the NBA as the Minnesota Timberwolves hosted the Philadelphia 76ers. Unfortunately, the change in the starting unit didn’t offer much resistance against Joel Embiid & Co.

Edwards earned the start on Friday with the Timberwolves down centers Karl-Anthony Towns (health and safety protocols) and Naz Reid (wrist). With both big men out, Timberwolves head coach Ryan Saunders opted to go smaller and gave Edwards his first start.

The No. 1 overall pick produced 15 points, four rebounds and three assists in 29 minutes of work during the 118-94 loss. The effort by Edwards was his fourth straight game with at least 15 points, and the 10th of the season, which leads all rookie players.

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Overall, Edwards continued to struggle shooting, hitting 5-of-13 from the field and 3-of-7 from 3-point range. Despite the inefficiency this season, Edwards has proven a dynamic scorer, easily capable of taking over games.

The rebuilding Timberwolves will likely continue to be up and down this season in terms of on-court product, but the development of Edwards will certainly be worth monitoring throughout the year.

Note: This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!

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