Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards has been fined $50,000 by the NBA for making an obscene gesture and using vulgar language toward fans during Game 1 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers. The incident occurred on April 19, 2025, during the third quarter of the Timberwolves’ 117–95 victory at Crypto.com Arena. With 4:33 remaining in the quarter, Edwards engaged in a heated exchange with Lakers fans who were heckling his teammate, Rudy Gobert. Edwards responded by highlighting Gobert’s salary and then made a lewd comment and obscene gesture toward the fans. The NBA swiftly penalized Edwards for his inappropriate behavior, citing unsportsmanlike conduct. Despite the controversy, Edwards delivered a strong performance in the game, finishing with 22 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists. The Timberwolves lead the series 1–0 as they head into Game 2 in Los Angeles. This fine adds to Edwards’ history of disciplinary actions by the league. Earlier in the season, he was fined $100,000 for using profanity during a live television interview and $75,000 for public criticism of officiating. He was also fined $25,000 for using profane language during a media interview and $35,000 for making an obscene gesture on the court. Edwards has acknowledged his past mistakes and expressed a commitment to improving his conduct. Following the incident in Memphis, he stated, “I made a careless, young, dumb mistake, shooting birds… I won’t do it again.”As the Timberwolves continue their playoff run, both Edwards and the team will be focused on maintaining discipline and avoiding further distractions.
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