Anthony Edwards has never lacked confidence or comedic timing, and during Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals, he displayed both in a moment that quickly went viral. Caught on the mic in a courtside exchange with Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II, Edwards perfectly captured the Warriors’ desperation to stay alive just long enough for their franchise superstar to return.
Anthony Edwards: “Y’all trynna get to Game 6… and get Wardell back.”
Gary Payton II: “That is the plan.”
Anthony Edwards: “I already know.”
Anthony Edwards to Gary Payton II 💀💀
“Y’all trynna get to Game 6… and get Wardell back. I already know.” pic.twitter.com/dmnIkTPAp7
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) May 11, 2025
The brief but hilarious exchange gave fans a peek into the mind games being played amid the high-stakes playoff chess match between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors. Edwards wasn’t just teasing, he was calling out a strategy that’s no secret to anyone following the series.
With Stephen Curry sidelined by a Grade 1 hamstring strain, the Warriors have had to rely on Jimmy Butler, Jonathan Kuminga, and Buddy Hield to carry the scoring load in hopes of stretching the series long enough for Curry’s return in a potential Game 6.
But Anthony Edwards might not let it get that far.
In Game 3, the Timberwolves star delivered yet another electric performance, scoring 36 points on 13-of-28 shooting along with four rebounds and four assists. He outdueled Butler and took over late in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 of his points in the final frame as Minnesota surged ahead for a 102-97 win and a 2-1 series lead.
His brilliance has not only tilted the series in Minnesota’s favor, but it’s exposed just how incomplete the Warriors are without Steph.
What makes Edwards’ jab sting even more is how much truth there is behind it. According to reports, Curry’s hamstring will keep him out through at least Game 5, with a return only possible if the Warriors extend the series. Golden State is desperately clinging to hope, but as Edwards’ on-court dominance grows, so does the likelihood of an early exit.
Even with strong efforts from Butler (33 points) and Kuminga (30 points), the Warriors couldn’t break through Minnesota’s defense or find a consistent offensive rhythm. Their ball movement stagnated, and their rebounding woes continued as Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle dominated the paint. It’s clear the Warriors are missing the gravity, spacing, and leadership that Curry provides.
And Edwards knows it.
While some stars might play coy or avoid stoking the fire, Edwards leans in. His playful trash talk is just another example of why he’s becoming one of the most entertaining and feared faces of the new NBA generation.
“Wardell” might still return, but if Edwards has his way, the series could be over before that happens. Game 4 looms large, and Minnesota now holds the momentum, the swagger, and thanks to Edwards’ mic’d-up moment, a bit of the comedy spotlight too.
