NBA Playoffs: Anthony Edwards Drops 43, Sparks Timberwolves’ Stunning Comeback Against Lakers

A Statement Game in the Spotlight

When the lights are brightest, only a few players thrive under the pressure. On Sunday night, Anthony Edwards reminded the basketball world that he’s not just here to compete — he’s here to take over. The 22-year-old guard poured in 43 points to help the Minnesota Timberwolves erase a double-digit deficit and shock the Los Angeles Lakers with a 114-108 comeback victory in Game 4 of their playoff series.

In a game filled with momentum swings, questionable calls, and big-time plays, it was Edwards who stood tallest — not just with his scoring, but with a heads-up challenge late in the fourth that flipped the game’s momentum for good.

Minnesota’s Rising Star Delivers When It Counts

Anthony Edwards’ box score was impressive enough:

• 43 points on 15-of-27 shooting
• 7 rebounds
• 5 assists
• 4 three-pointers

But the numbers don’t tell the full story.

With Minnesota trailing by 12 midway through the third, Edwards caught fire. He hit three straight jumpers, including a step-back triple over LeBron James that got the Wolves within five. The energy shifted immediately. Every possession after that felt like Edwards was in full control — demanding the ball, creating space, and finishing with either finesse or pure power.

The Timberwolves rode that wave all the way into the fourth, where things got dramatic.

The Game-Changing Challenge

With just over three minutes left and Minnesota clinging to a two-point lead, Edwards drove hard to the rim and was called for a charge. The Lakers bench erupted, thinking they had just swung the game back their way. But Edwards knew something wasn’t right — and he immediately signaled to challenge the call.

Head coach Chris Finch agreed.

After a tense review, the referees overturned the foul, calling it a block instead. Edwards hit both free throws, pushing the lead to four. It was a moment of awareness and leadership rarely seen in a player his age — the kind of decision that shifts a series.

LeBron and the Lakers Fade Late

LeBron James led the Lakers with 28 points, while Anthony Davis added 25 points and 11 boards. But down the stretch, Los Angeles couldn’t match Minnesota’s energy or execution.

The Lakers shot just 4-for-14 in the final six minutes, settling for contested jumpers and failing to get key stops. Meanwhile, Edwards continued to attack, either getting to the line or finding open teammates like Karl-Anthony Towns, who chipped in with a quiet but efficient 18 points.

“We didn’t close,” LeBron said postgame. “Plain and simple. They made plays, we didn’t.”

Timberwolves Flip the Script

This wasn’t just a playoff win — it was a defining moment for a franchise that’s been looking for one. The Timberwolves now lead the series 3-1, heading back to Minneapolis with a chance to close it out in front of a packed home crowd.

Edwards, who’s now averaging over 31 points per game in the series, is making a strong case as the breakout star of these playoffs. More importantly, he’s doing it with style, confidence, and a competitive edge that has fans and analysts buzzing.

What’s Next?

Game 5 tips off Wednesday night at Target Center. Minnesota will be looking to finish the job, while the Lakers will be fighting to extend their season.

But one thing’s clear: if Anthony Edwards keeps playing like this, it might not matter who’s on the other side.

Final Takeaway

The NBA Playoffs are about moments — and Sunday night, Anthony Edwards owned one. From a jaw-dropping 43-point performance to a clutch challenge that sealed the deal, the Timberwolves’ young star didn’t just win a game. He might’ve just arrived on the national stage for good.

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