It takes an entire roster to win a playoff series, even if some players only make an impact behind the scenes.
On Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers learned their opponent in the first round would be the Minnesota Timberwolves. After earning the West’s No. 3 seed this season, the Lakers have been among the favorites to compete for a spot in the Finals.
However, to get to that point, the Lakers will not only have to go through the West’s top teams, they will need to escape their tough first-round opponent. The Timberwolves are nowhere near as good as they were last season when Karl-Anthony Towns was still around, but they still have superstar Anthony Edwards, who gives them a chance in any matchup.
This season, Edwards averaged 27,6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists to earn his third All-Star appearance and likely his second All-NBA selection. Stopping the Timberwolves means stopping Edwards, and the Lakers will have their hands full.
While there is no replicating what Edwards can do on the floor, the Lakers have still tried to simulate what the Minnesota star will do in the postseason. In preparation for the matchup, the Lakers and coach JJ Redick have used Bronny James and Shake Milton as their version of Edwards in practice, according to a report from ESPN's Dave McMenamin.
As important pieces of the scout team, James and Milton have been given the most important responsibility. Edwards is a transcendent talent, and giving just anyone that role wouldn’t work.
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While Milton has some of that offensive talent, James is perhaps a better comparison, thanks to his frame and athleticism. Although only one LeBron James is likely to get anyone important playing time in the postseason, the Hall of Famer’s son is sure to be helpful as the playoffs go on.
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