Max Contract Extension Reached Between Anthony Edwards and Timberwolves

Minnesota Timberwolves sign Anthony Edwards to max extension worth $207 million.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have made a clear statement about their future plans: they are going all-in on building their team around Anthony Edwards. In a significant move, the Timberwolves and Edwards have agreed to a maximum contract extension worth $207 million over five years, with the potential to reach $260 million, as confirmed by his agent Bill Duffy to The Associated Press.

This lucrative deal will come into effect in the 2024-25 season, solidifying Edwards' position as a key player for the Timberwolves. He joins the ranks of other talented rookies who have received maximum extensions this summer, including Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers, LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets, and Desmond Bane of the Memphis Grizzlies.

However, Edwards' contract has the potential to reach the supermax level if he earns a spot on an All-NBA team. This showcases the Timberwolves' belief in his abilities and potential for growth.

Throughout his first three years with the Timberwolves, Edwards has consistently improved his performance. His scoring, rebounding, assist, steal, and shooting numbers have all seen an upward trajectory each season. In the previous season, he averaged an impressive 24.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, shooting at a 46% field goal percentage and 37% from beyond the arc.

Edwards' accomplishments are even more remarkable when considering that he is among a select group of players who have achieved such high averages in points, rebounds, and assists per game. At the age of 21, he is the youngest player since LeBron James in the 2005-06 season to achieve this feat, further highlighting his exceptional talent and potential.

The only uncertainty surrounding Edwards' contract extension was the timing of its announcement. According to league rules, the Timberwolves had to wait until July 1st to finalize the deal. However, the slight delay did not impact the team's commitment to Edwards and their long-term plans.

As the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Edwards has quickly established himself as a rising star in the league. Turning 22 next month, he will also represent the USA Basketball team in the upcoming FIBA World Cup, further showcasing his abilities on an international stage.

With the addition of Edwards' maximum extension, the Timberwolves now boast a roster featuring three max players, including Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert. Last year, the team secured a $224 million contract extension with Towns, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of the franchise. Gobert, who joined the Timberwolves in a significant trade with the Utah Jazz, still has three years remaining on his contract. Towns, on the other hand, has five years left on his deal.

The Timberwolves have experienced some success in recent years, making the playoffs in consecutive seasons. However, they aim to go even further and achieve a winning record for the third year in a row, a feat not accomplished since their impressive six-year stretch from 1999-00 to 2004-05.

In conclusion, the Minnesota Timberwolves have made a bold statement by committing to Anthony Edwards as the centerpiece of their team. With a maximum contract extension worth up to $260 million, Edwards has the opportunity to solidify his place among the league's elite players. The Timberwolves' roster, which also includes Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert, demonstrates their determination to compete at the highest level and achieve long-term success. As the upcoming season approaches, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the growth and development of this talented team.