“The NBA’s best backcourt”: Perkins’ verdict on Ball and Edwards
The trade that brought LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves has created both excitement and skepticism. But Kendrick Perkins is convinced: on paper, the duo of Ball and Anthony Edwards is the best backcourt in the NBA
One of the biggest – and most unexpected – trades of this offseason was undoubtedly the one that sent LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves, creating a new star pairing alongside Anthony Edwards. The move has sparked mixed reactions across the NBA, from analysts to fans alike.
Many, while acknowledging Ball’s immense talent, believe his fit in Minnesota could be problematic. The Timberwolves have built their identity around physicality, defense, and intensity for years, so a player with Ball’s style may appear, at least on paper, to be an awkward fit within that system.
There are also lingering questions about LaMelo Ball’s mentality, as he has yet to show a consistent win-at-all-costs approach. That said, it’s important to consider the context of the Charlotte Hornets. The franchise has been far from a winning organization for years, making just three NBA Playoff appearances over the last two decades.
On the other hand, many believe the point guard is exactly the piece Minnesota has been missing to elevate its offense – the team’s biggest weakness in recent years. Looking back at the Timberwolves’ last three playoff runs, it’s clear they needed a secondary ball-handler next to Anthony Edwards, as simple double-teams on their star guard often disrupted the entire offensive system.
Among those defending the trade is Kendrick Perkins, who recently expressed tremendous confidence in the new Edwards-Ball pairing and in Minnesota’s future.
The one thing we wanted for Anthony Edwards was a young, true point guard, and that’s exactly what LaMelo Ball is. […] LaMelo is a professional and a real basketball player. In a winning culture like Minnesota’s, he’ll thrive. […] They (Edwards and Ball, en) are the best backcourt in the NBA
Kendrick Perkins
As always, the final verdict will come on the court. We don’t know whether the trade that brought LaMelo Ball to the Timberwolves will carry Minnesota all the way to the NBA Finals, but one thing is certain: watching Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball share the floor will be a thrill for basketball fans and one of the most exciting backcourts in the NBA next season.