The Minnesota Timberwolves shook up their roster by sending Naz Reid, a first-round pick, three first-round pick swaps, and three second-round picks in a blockbuster package to acquire Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball.
While many believe Ball’s arrival will help unlock Anthony Edwards and make his life easier next season, NBA analyst Jason Whitlock has been outspoken in his criticism of the move.
Jason Whitlock Makes Feelings Clear on Timberwolves Pairing LaMelo Ball With Anthony Edwards
Ball put together decent production this past season, averaging 20.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 7.1 assists, while shooting 40.7% from the field and 36.8% from three-point range. His arrival in Minnesota could ease the offensive burden on Edwards, who was forced to shoulder an enormous workload throughout last season.
Edwards averaged 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists but was left off the All-NBA teams after failing to meet the league’s 65-game eligibility requirement.
Ball and Edwards were selected among the top three picks in the 2020 NBA Draft and will be sharing the locker room soon.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst even said that Minnesota’s decision to trade for Ball was designed to “keep Edwards engaged” with the franchise, and many believe the Timberwolves may have assembled a superstar duo capable of leading a legitimate championship run.
Former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho also believed Ball can boost Edwards’ title aspirations, though he said success will depend on Edwards’ willingness to become more effective without the ball in his hands.
However, Whitlock thinks Ball’s pairing with Edwards itself is a big wrong move.
“Lamelo Ball & Anthony Edwards is a match made in hell,” Whitlock posted.
Lamelo Ball & Anthony Edwards is a match made in hell. pic.twitter.com/2r25Fid70U
— Jason Whitlock (@jasonwhitlock) June 26, 2026
Whitlock elaborated his take by comparing the pairing to two explosive personalities from different generations of basketball.
“Pairing LaMelo Ball with Anthony Edwards, that’s like, ‘Hey, can we put Ja Morant and Allen Iverson together and see how that goes?’”
“Someone’s going to end up dead or in jail. LaMelo’s already tatted head to toe. Ant-Man will probably be tatted head to toe before we know it, and they’ll be out wrecking strip clubs.”
Whitlock’s comments stand in stark contrast to reports surrounding the two stars. ESPN insider Shams Charania has stated that Ball and Edwards are friends, noting that Ball is excited about the opportunity in Minnesota and understands that the goal is to compete for championships.
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If there is a genuine concern about pairing the two, it is likely about basketball rather than off-court narratives.
Both players are at their best with the ball in their hands, meaning they will need to adjust their usage and offensive responsibilities.
For the partnership to reach its full potential, one or perhaps both will have to sacrifice touches and become more effective playing off the ball.
