Anthony Edwards cedes ballhandling to LaMelo Ball, aims to return to natural two-guard role

# What happened

# Why it matters

# What Edwards said Edwards described himself as a natural two-guard and acknowledged coach Chris Finch often encourages him to pass. He said, "I never thought I could develop any point guard skills. I know [coach Chris Finch] harps on me passing the ball, but now we got LaMelo, so I'm happy." He added that without the ball-carrying burden he can rotate into corner spot-up roles for multiple plays in a row and focus on guarding the opponent's best players.

# LaMelo's role and chemistry LaMelo Ball arrives after six seasons in Charlotte. Ball said of their relationship: "Really, we got the same personality. Cool, confident, outgoing. That's my brother and I think we're going to be straight." The implication is Ball will serve as primary playmaker, allowing Edwards to shift toward his preferred on-ball and off-ball balance.

# Roster context Minnesota acquired Ball in a blockbuster trade that sent Naz Reid and Julius Randle out as part of larger roster moves. Edwards specifically noted he will miss Naz Reid, calling him "my brother," but said he's "super happy about the changes in the locker room" and believes the mix of different mentalities and personalities will mesh.

# Defensive and individual implications Edwards framed a clear cause-effect: reduced ball-carrying should reduce fatigue and improve his on-ball defense. He expects to be able to guard top opponents more consistently when he spends stretches in corners and is not responsible for initiating every offense.

# Coach and media context Related coverage shows coach Chris Finch believes Ball's presence could alter Minnesota's offensive identity, though Finch also indicated Edwards will remain central to the team's play. Finch said the ultimate identity will depend on how the new roster develops and how the players mesh on both ends.

# Bottom line Edwards is signaling a role shift: primary offensive control to LaMelo Ball, Edwards to a more conventional two-guard role that prioritizes scoring efficiency and defensive energy. The move is framed as a logical response to workload and aims to improve Minnesota's two-way performance.

# Quick facts

• Edwards averaged 28.8 points on 48 percent shooting last season (61 games).

• Edwards and Ball describe similar personalities and early chemistry.

# Short expected outcomes

• Edwards may take more spot-up and catch-and-shoot opportunities.
• Edwards' defensive minutes and intensity could rise when he isn't handling the ball up the floor.
• Ball is expected to be the primary facilitator, giving Minnesota new offensive options and spacing.