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Edwards Edges Closer to League-Mandated Suspension After Latest Technical
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards is walking a fine line with the NBA’s technical foul limit after receiving yet another whistle during Friday’s game against the Houston Rockets. The controversial call pushed his season tally to 13—just three away from an automatic suspension.
The Play That Sparked Controversy
The technical foul occurred in the first quarter after Edwards missed a dunk and voiced his frustration over a non-call. While the Rockets capitalized with a fast-break bucket, officials issued a technical on Edwards, a decision that quickly became a topic of debate.
Fans were divided. Some believed the officials overreacted, while others argued that Edwards had a legitimate gripe, as it appeared he was fouled on the dunk attempt. Regardless, the whistle now puts him dangerously close to the NBA’s disciplinary threshold.
What Happens If Edwards Reaches 16 Techs?
Under NBA rules, a player who accumulates 16 technical fouls in the regular season faces a $5,000 fine and a one-game suspension. If Edwards picks up three more before the season ends, he will be forced to sit out a game—something the Timberwolves can’t afford as they push toward the playoffs.
Last season, Edwards reached the 16-technical mark in the final game, narrowly avoiding suspension since the count resets for the postseason. However, with more than a handful of games remaining this year, the risk is significantly higher.
A History of Rescinded Calls
Notably, Edwards has already had one technical foul rescinded this season. In a January matchup against the New York Knicks, he was whistled for spiking the ball at halftime. However, after review, the league ruled that the infraction occurred after the buzzer, negating the penalty.
While this offers some precedent for technical fouls being overturned, the Timberwolves can’t rely on future rescissions if Edwards continues to accumulate calls.
Edwards Responds with Dominant Performance
Despite the setback, Edwards turned his frustration into motivation, torching the Rockets for 25 first-half points and proving once again why he’s the heart of Minnesota’s offense.
However, if he continues to test the league’s patience, the Timberwolves may have to plan for a future game without their young star on the floor.