NBA

Anthony Edwards Expects “A Lot of Downs” in Playing With LaMelo Ball

Jul 21, 2026, 5:31 AM CUT

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Minnesota Timberwolves fans are in for a real treat after the Charlotte Hornets traded LaMelo Ball. The Wolves are set to test the waters with their star duo of Ball and Anthony Edwards this coming season. Ball is one of the most popular point guards today for his flashy, exciting style of play. It'll be interesting to see how Melo's flair matches Ant's explosiveness.

While many are looking forward to their new pairing, Edwards recently set his expectations for playing with Ball. During an appearance at Fanatics Fest NYC, Ant shared how he understands that their duo won't click instantly. He knows that there'll be a lot of trial and error, especially in their first season.

"It’s definitely going to be ups and downs," Edwards said. "First year together, maybe a lot of downs. We’ll celebrate both of them. Celebrate the ups, celebrate the downs."

Based on Edwards' statement, it appears that he's already trying to make a good impression on his teammate. When stars collaborate in the NBA, it's usually hit or miss.

For example, when Dwight Howard and Steve Nash formed a big three with Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers, it led to one of the most difficult-to-watch seasons in the team's history. But then, when LeBron James took his talents to South Beach and formed a Big Three with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, it resulted in two championship titles.

Having said that, everything remains to be seen for now. However, based on how Ball and Edwards play, there is speculation that the duo will blend perfectly.

Ball is known to be one of the most elite ball handlers and floor generals today. Edwards has lacked a point guard who can match his energy and pace.

Ant is an explosive player who likes taking it strong to the hoop and getting on people's nerves. Melo has a similar energy, being an expressive person and a player who likes going for highlight plays.

Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball Practicing Professional Postgame Interviews

Aside from their exciting style of play on the hardwood, many fans are also anticipating the hilarious interaction between LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards on the microphone. Before teaming up, Ball and Edwards had built a notorious reputation for dropping inappropriate yet humorous remarks during interviews.

According to reports, Ball has been fined twice in his career for using profane language and offensive, derogatory anti-gay phrases live on television.

As for Edwards, he's been fined on four different occasions. Most of it was due to using profane language and dropping several F-bombs. The other time was simply due to calling out NBA officials.

With that in mind, Ant is aware of their reputation and has recently declared that he and Melo are now working on their professionalism on the microphone.

"We’ve already been talking about cutting our cussing back and being more professional," Edwards said during an interview at Fanatics Fest NYC. "We trying to get it together before they get on us."

While this is a positive for the Minnesota Timberwolves' PR team, they shouldn't let their guard down just yet. Being loud and expressive is already second nature to both Ball and Edwards.

It might take some time before they fully transition to the more professional demeanor Edwards promised they've been working on.

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Tanay Sahai

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