Kendrick Perkins Predicts Anthony Edwards Trade If Timberwolves Miss NBA Finals

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has predicted that Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards will request a trade if the team fails to reach the NBA Finals in the upcoming season, citing Edwards' desire to be among the top-paid players and his back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances as motivations. Perkins compared Edwards' $45 million salary unfavorably to Bradley Beal's $52 million, though this comparison has been criticized as misleading given Edwards' younger age and potential to sign an even more lucrative contract in the near future. Edwards, only 23 years old, has already established himself as an elite player, leading the Timberwolves to consecutive Conference Finals and earning a record-setting rookie extension. Despite Perkins' trade speculation, insiders and fans view Edwards as likely to remain with Minnesota, especially with recent contract extensions for key players and new ownership committed to building a winning culture. Edwards has shown commitment to the team, recently supporting Timberwolves prospects at Summer League, and the franchise has maintained a largely stable roster aiming to improve on recent playoff performances. While Perkins' prediction adds drama, many believe the Timberwolves remain one of the few teams capable of providing Edwards a genuine shot at an NBA title without dismantling their core.