Anthony Edwards scores 45 points to lead Timberwolves past Miami Heat

The Minnesota Timberwolves opened their 2026-27 NBA season with a convincing 131-106 victory over the Miami Heat at the Kaseya Center. The win was anchored by a dominant performance from star guard Anthony Edwards, who set the tone for the campaign with an explosive scoring display. The Timberwolves' offensive efficiency was on full display throughout the contest, as they overwhelmed the Heat in front of their home crowd to secure an early-season statement win. Anthony Edwards finished the night with 45 points and 10 rebounds, marking one of the most productive season-opening performances in franchise history. His scoring barrage included nine three-pointers, a feat that places him among only three players in NBA history to record that many shots from beyond the arc in a season opener. This historic accuracy helped Minnesota pull away from Miami, particularly in the second half where the Timberwolves' perimeter shooting became impossible for the Heat to contain. The game also featured the highly anticipated debut of LaMelo Ball, who joined the Timberwolves as a marquee signing. Ball contributed 21 points and six assists, providing a strong secondary scoring option and playmaking presence alongside Edwards. In the frontcourt, Rudy Gobert remained a dominant force on the glass, securing 15 rebounds to limit Miami's second-chance opportunities. The collective effort saw Minnesota convert 21 three-pointers as a team, vastly outperforming the Heat’s total of eight. Despite the loss, the Miami Heat saw a significant individual performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who led the team with 35 points in his first appearance for the franchise. However, Miami struggled to maintain pace with Minnesota's high-tempo offense as the game progressed. For the Timberwolves, this opening-night success provides significant momentum as they look to establish themselves as top contenders in the Western Conference for the remainder of the 2026-27 season.