As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the NBA playoffs, defensive-minded forward Jarred Vanderbilt has provided a glimpse into the team’s strategy for containing Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards.
Vanderbilt, who played alongside Edwards during his time in Minnesota, spoke to the media about the challenges Edwards presents and how the Lakers plan to make life difficult for the explosive guard.
Vanderbilt, who spent three years with the Timberwolves before being traded to Utah and eventually landing in Los Angeles, knows Edwards’ game inside and out.
“He’s a great offensive player, man. He’s super physical, he’s shooting it well this year, as you can see,” Vanderbilt said. “So just continue to make it tough for him. He can get going quick, so just not to get anything easy for him.”
Jarred Vanderbilt on Anthony Edwards: “He’s a great offensive player, man. He’s super physical, he’s shooting it well this year, as you can see. So just continue to just make it tough for him. He can get going quick, so just not to get anything easy for him.”
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) April 16, 2025
Edwards, who has emerged as one of the league’s brightest young stars, will undoubtedly be a focal point of the Lakers’ defensive game plan. Vanderbilt emphasized the importance of limiting Edwards’ easy opportunities and forcing him into tough shots. The Lakers’ strategy will likely involve a combination of physicality, disciplined rotations, and constant pressure to disrupt Edwards’ rhythm.
The Lakers finished the regular season as the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, while the Timberwolves secured the No. 6 seed. The series is expected to be a battle of star power, with Luka Doncic leading the Lakers and Edwards spearheading the Timberwolves. Vanderbilt’s role as a versatile defender will be crucial in slowing down Edwards and giving the Lakers an edge in the matchup.
