Ant started hot. Then it unraveled fast.
That one hurt at home.
Early energy was real. Anthony Edwards picked off two steals right away, the crowd got loud, and Joan getting the start with Rudy suspended and Naz out felt like a legit chance to see something fresh.
Myself and all of X were hype about Joan getting the first-team nod.
It didn’t last.
Minnesota went small most of the night against Philly.
Randle at the 5.
Jaden at the 5.
TSJ and Ayo at the 4 and I swear I saw Headband Mike play the 5
Our 7’3” G-League stand out didn’t see the floor until garbage time.
Jim Peterson told a story on the broadcast about criticizing a coach for not playing someone, only to find out later it was back-office or roster-related stuff fans don’t see. That honestly kept me from going overboard.
Still, this is the exact frustration a lot of fans have had.
Young guys barely play meaningful minutes all year. Then injuries or suspensions hit, and suddenly they’re thrown in cold with no runway. That’s a steep learning curve. Hell Finch even admits to doing the same ish to Jaden his rookie year making him guard Giannis.
Joan starting was good. I was honestly shocked at the decision.
When rotations stay tight all season and trust never really gets built during comfortable games, nights like this expose it.
The Numbers
Philly:
- 51.5% from the field
- 56.8% from three (21-of-37)
- 31 assists
- 14 steals
Minnesota:
- 47.9% from the field
- 30.3% from deep (10-of-33)
- 22 assists
- 20 turnovers
That’s how you lose by 27 on your own court.
Ant finished with 28 and 9, but seven turnovers show how chaotic it became without Rudy or Naz anchoring things. No real structure. Spacing tighter. Defensive communication looser.
It’s a reminder that depth, trust, and real reps for young players matter more than people admit. Fans have been asking to see those guys get meaningful run for a reason.
Nights like this are why that conversation keeps coming back.
Jim’s story helped keep things in perspective.
The frustration’s still there.
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