7. Minnesota Timberwolves
Best player: Anthony Edwards
It feels wrong to put Anthony Edwards this low, but nonetheless, given the talent in the West, this feels like the right spot for him. Edwards has had an amazing season that will likely yield an All-NBA selection. He averaged career highs in points (25.9), field goal percentage (46.1 percent), and assists (5.4). He is a big reason why the T-Wolves have gone from a play-in team last season to a top-three seed in the West this season.
In his limited playoff action, Edwards has shined. In 11 playoff games, he has averaged 28 points per game on 47 percent shooting and 38 percent from the field. He has been sensational, but he has only won three playoff games out of those 11. It is not his fault by any means, but that record is not inspiring.
In addition to that, Edwards’ first round opponent, the Phoenix Suns, is one that he struggled against this year. Edwards averaged only 14 PPG in three games against the Suns and also had 11 turnovers. He was also a combined 13-of-42 from the field in those three matchups. Yikes.
Edwards needs to step it up for the Wolves given the fact that he is their offense and Karl Anthony-Towns just came back from injury. He is going to need to carry the load against a tough Suns team. Seven might be a low spot on this list, but given the names coming up, the logic should be understood. Which leads me to the next name…