Anthony Edwards is known for lighting up the scoreboard, but it’s what he’s doing on the other end of the floor that’s starting to turn heads. The Timberwolves guard has always been a force offensively-explosive first step, deep range, and a fearless mindset that makes him a nightmare for defenders. But in Minnesota’s 123-111 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, it was the defense that stole the spotlight-and Edwards was the one setting the tone.
This wasn’t just a big win; it was a statement. The Timberwolves clamped down on one of the league’s most potent offenses, holding the Thunder below their season average of 120.4 points per game. And while Minnesota’s offense was humming-scoring 30 points off 16 Oklahoma City turnovers-it was the defensive intensity that fueled the victory.
Edwards, now in his fourth season, isn’t just talking about defense-he’s owning it. After the game, the 24-year-old All-Star made it clear: Minnesota’s defensive success starts with him.
“I don't want to jinx it, man. But I'm liking the way our defense is looking these last couple of games,” Edwards said. “I think we just have to carry it over in every game.”
Some Anthony Edwards postgame tonight. pic.twitter.com/bo3MyRit0l
— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) January 30, 2026
That kind of accountability is what separates stars from leaders. Edwards knows that when he locks in defensively, the rest of the team follows. He’s not just guarding his man-he’s setting the standard.
“I think it starts with me on the defensive end,” he continued. “If I'm guarding at a high level, I think everybody's gotta do it.
So I just gotta make my mind up and choose to do it, which is always tough. It’s definitely hard for sure.”
And he’s not wrong. It’s one thing to pour in 26 points, dish out five assists, and grab five boards-Edwards did all that, along with two steals-but to do it while taking on the challenge of defending the opposing team’s top wing? That’s a different level of commitment.
Jaden McDaniels backed him up with a strong two-way performance of his own: 21 points, four rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. His length and versatility continue to make him a key part of Minnesota’s defensive identity.
This win marked the Timberwolves’ third straight, and it came against a Thunder team that’s been one of the Western Conference’s top stories this season. Holding them in check is no small feat-and it’s the kind of performance that could signal something bigger brewing in Minnesota.
The Timberwolves will look to keep the momentum rolling when they face the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday. If the defense keeps showing up like this-and if Edwards keeps leading the charge on both ends-the rest of the West better take notice.