Timberwolves Star Anthony Edwards Walks Off Bench Early - Twice

Edwards' early exits raise questions about professionalism and leadership amid Timberwolves' struggles

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:36am

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A fragmented, abstract painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, depicting a basketball game in motion. Geometric shapes and planes of color represent the players, court, and arena, creating a dynamic, disorienting composition that captures the intensity of the sport.A cubist interpretation of the emotional turmoil and competitive drive behind a star player's mid-game exit, reflecting the complex dynamics at play in professional sports.Atlanta Today

For the second time in a week, Minnesota Timberwolves star guard Anthony Edwards abruptly walked off the bench during a game, sparking conversations about his frustration, professionalism, and leadership. Edwards, one of the NBA's leading scorers, left the bench with 7:52 remaining in the Timberwolves' 126-102 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, shortly after coach Chris Finch pulled the starters with the team down big. This follows an earlier incident where Edwards was ejected in overtime during a loss to the Denver Nuggets.

Why it matters

Edwards' actions raise questions about his ability to handle adversity and stay engaged with his team, even in blowout losses. As a cornerstone of the Timberwolves' future, his behavior could undermine team unity and accountability if not addressed properly.

The details

In the latest incident, Edwards tossed his towel aside and left the bench after coach Finch pulled the starters with the Timberwolves down 109-80 to the Hawks. While Edwards' frustration is understandable given his 30-point performance, Finch stated that Edwards "needs to stay out on the floor and root for his team." Just days earlier, Edwards was ejected in overtime during a loss to the Nuggets after arguing foul calls, despite scoring 44 points.

  • On April 10, 2026, Edwards walked off the bench with 7:52 remaining in the Timberwolves' 126-102 loss to the Hawks.
  • On April 5, 2026, Edwards was ejected in overtime during the Timberwolves' 142-138 loss to the Nuggets.

The players

Anthony Edwards

The Minnesota Timberwolves' star guard, currently averaging 29.1 points per game, the 8th highest in the NBA.

Chris Finch

The head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

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What they’re saying

“Obviously frustrated with the performance and rightfully so, but he needs to stay out on the floor and root for his team.”

— Chris Finch, Head Coach, Minnesota Timberwolves

What’s next

The Timberwolves and coach Finch will likely address Edwards' behavior and work to ensure he channels his frustration in a more constructive manner, as his talent and leadership are crucial to the team's success.

The takeaway

Edwards' early exits from games raise concerns about his maturity and ability to handle adversity, which could undermine the Timberwolves' team unity and accountability if not properly addressed. As a rising star, Edwards must find a way to balance his competitive fire with professionalism and support for his teammates.