Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves had a strong playoff run, fueling hopes that this might be the year Edwards could rise as the new Face of the NBA by challenging elites like LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant. However, despite their momentum through the early rounds in 2025, facing a well-rounded team proved the necessity for more than one star player, pushing the Timberwolves to consider adding another top-tier talent like Durant.

The Timberwolves’ journey ended as they struggled against disciplined defensive teams such as the Oklahoma City Thunder, exposing their need for a more balanced, multi-dimensional roster. The Thunder’s ability to stifle Edwards and the Wolves’ secondary scorers illustrated that playoff success demands contributions beyond a lone primary offensive option. This playoff experience has now pushed Minnesota into a critical offseason phase, where acquiring a proven “alpha” player has become a priority to elevate the team’s championship prospects.

Timberwolves Target Kevin Durant as Essential ‘Alpha’ Partner for Edwards

Sources close to the Timberwolves organization reveal that Minnesota is actively exploring avenues to bring Kevin Durant to Minneapolis. This move is driven by the recognition that Anthony Edwards, while an emerging star, requires another elite presence alongside him to contend for an NBA title. Durant’s experience, skill set, and championship pedigree make him an ideal candidate to complement the 23-year-old Edwards, who views Durant as an idol and mentor.

Durant’s potential addition would not threaten Edwards’ role but rather enhance it, considering Edwards has openly called Durant the ‘alpha’ of Team USA during their time as Olympic teammates. Their existing relationship could ease Durant’s integration into the Timberwolves’ roster and accelerate the team’s development toward championship contention.

Edwards Identifies Durant as the Defining Leader on Team USA

Despite Edwards’ strong individual performances, including his role as the primary offensive weapon for the Timberwolves, he acknowledged the need to improve after the team’s postseason exit. When reflecting on leadership under pressure, Edwards pointed directly to Durant as the ultimate ‘alpha’ figure.

“When the game is on the line, who’s our alpha? I think Kevin Durant, he better be… that’s who I came to see. Who do I look to for advice? Of course, KD, that’s my favorite player of all time, anything I wanna ask, I go straight to him.” —Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves star

Edwards’ admiration for Durant is particularly notable given the presence of other NBA titans like LeBron James and Steph Curry on the 2024 Paris Olympics Team USA roster. The respect he shows highlights Durant’s influence, not only as a scorer but as a leader in crucial moments, reinforcing Minnesota’s desire to bring that kind of guidance to their lineup.

Trade Talks: Wolves Previously Engaged in Pursuit of Durant

Efforts to acquire Durant are not new for Minnesota. Prior to the 2025 NBA trade deadline, the Timberwolves reportedly approached the Phoenix Suns, Durant’s team at the time, to gauge interest in a potential trade. Prominent analyst Brian Windhorst confirmed these talks, revealing how serious Minnesota was about bringing Durant into their fold.

“It became clear to me in talking to the parties involved just how serious the Wolves were about trying to trade for Kevin Durant at the trade deadline.” —Brian Windhorst, ESPN analyst on The Hoop Collective

This level of pursuit underscores the Timberwolves’ urgency in securing another star-caliber player to pair with Edwards. However, the trade failed to materialize, likely due to Durant’s own preferences or Phoenix’s valuation, but Minnesota’s continued interest signals the importance of rekindling that dialogue as the offseason advances.

Balancing the Roster: Wolves’ Need for a Reliable Secondary Scorer

The Timberwolves face a challenging balancing act in any deal involving Durant. To meet Phoenix’s likely high asking price, Minnesota may have to part with important contributors or draft assets. Yet, carrying a roster that leans too heavily on Edwards alone has proven insufficient for deep playoff success.

Durant’s arrival would provide Minnesota with a secondary scorer capable of shouldering the offensive burden when Edwards is heavily guarded. Their combined scoring threat would force defenses to adjust and create more opportunities for other teammates, strengthening the team’s overall competitiveness.

Moreover, Durant’s championship experience and veteran leadership could be invaluable in the locker room and on the court, helping Edwards mature as a leader and guiding the younger players through high-pressure playoff situations.

Looking Ahead: What a Durant-Edwards Partnership Means for Minnesota

If the Timberwolves successfully bring Kevin Durant to Minneapolis, it could reshape the Western Conference power structure and dramatically raise Minnesota’s title chances. The dynamic between Edwards and Durant offers a blend of youthful energy and proven excellence, potentially establishing the team as a formidable contender.

For Edwards, teaming up with his idol aligns with his personal and professional aspirations, providing a mentor on the team who commands respect and knows how to win at the highest level. For Durant, reuniting with a teammate he trusts could provide a fresh challenge late in his career and a chance to influence a rising superstar‘s trajectory.

As the Timberwolves enter the offseason fully aware of their playoff shortcomings, the pursuit of another ‘alpha’ like Durant demonstrates a serious commitment to evolving into a championship-caliber team. How the front office navigates trade discussions and roster adjustments will be critical in determining if Minnesota can ultimately break through and compete for the NBA crown.