Minnesota Timberwolves 2025-26 Preview: Anthony Edwards’ MVP Leap & Winning the West

2024-25 Season Summary

The Timberwolves finished with a 49-33 record, placing sixth in the Western Conference, and were eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the conference finals.

Offseason Changes

The team saw the departure of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luka Garza, and Josh Minott.

Anthony Edwards finished seventh in MVP voting last season.
Anthony Edwards finished seventh in MVP voting last season.

Is Anthony Edwards Ready for an MVP Breakthrough?

The Timberwolves, led by 24-year-old Anthony Edwards, have made back-to-back conference final appearances, showcasing their rising status in the league. Edwards, considered a top-five player, has consistently been among the league’s best, finishing in the top seven for MVP voting and earning All-NBA second team honors twice.

Despite these achievements, Minnesota’s postseason losses — to Luka Doncic’s Mavericks and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Thunder — highlight the need for Edwards to elevate his game. He averaged a career-high 27.6 points last season, along with 5.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists, but the team needs him to be the dominant force in playoffs and series decisive moments.

One challenge for Edwards is improving his efficiency against double teams, as he often struggled with defensive schemes last season. He is still young, and many superstars reach their peak around age 26-27, including legends like LeBron James and Michael Jordan. Minnesota’s core, including veteran Rudy Gobert and Mike Conley, is built to compete now, but the franchise is counting on Edwards to take a leap into superstardom this season.

Best-Case Scenario

Edwards becomes a serious MVP contender, inspiring Randle to a better season, while Gobert and Conley contribute at expected levels. Young players like Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid develop, boosting the overall roster. If all aligns, the Wolves could challenge for the top spot in the Western Conference.

Worst-Case Scenario

If Edwards does not progress as a playmaker, and Randle struggles again, the team could slip behind other Western powers like Denver and Houston. It could lead to roster reshuffles, including trading Rudy Gobert, and focusing on players with higher upside for the future.

Upcoming Season

The Timberwolves will kick off their next campaign on October 22nd against Portland, aiming to build on a 105-win span over the past two seasons. With continuity and a talented roster, they are poised to contend—and Edwards’ development remains central to their championship aspirations.