Anthony Edwards Criticizes Lakers’ Home-Court Energy, Calls Celtics and Timberwolves’ Arenas Superior

Minnesota Timberwolves’ rising star Anthony Edwards sparked controversy following Game 5 of the Western Conference playoffs, openly criticizing the atmosphere at the Los Angeles Lakers’ Crypto.com Arena. The 22-year-old guard, known for his unfiltered honesty, claimed the Lakers’ home-court environment lacked the intensity he anticipated, particularly during critical moments of the game.

“I expected it to be way louder and more electric here,” Edwards told reporters postgame. “Our crowd in Minnesota and even Boston’s TD Garden—those arenas actually bring the energy. This felt… quiet.” His comparison to the Timberwolves’ Target Center and the Celtics’ storied TD Garden—a venue he called “10 times tougher” for opponents—raised eyebrows, especially given the historic rivalry between the Lakers and Celtics.

Edwards didn’t stop there. He suggested the Lakers’ fanbase prioritized celebrity spectacle over basketball passion. “You see all these big names in the seats, but are they even watching the game? In Minnesota or Boston, fans live and die with every play,” he remarked, alluding to the Hollywood-heavy crowds often spotted at Lakers games.

His critique came after a standout performance: Edwards dropped 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists in the Timberwolves’ 106–99 loss. While his team faces elimination, his postgame comments shifted focus to the Lakers’ home-court reputation. Historically hailed as a fortress fueled by iconic moments and die-hard fans, the Crypto.com Arena’s modern-day vibe, per Edwards, pales in comparison to peers.

Reactions to his remarks were mixed. Teammates praised his candor, with one player quipping, “Ant tells it like it is—no filter.” Conversely, media analysts speculated whether Edwards aimed to unsettle the Lakers ahead of a potential series decider. Lakers veterans, meanwhile, dismissed the jab. “Everyone’s entitled to their opinion,” said forward Anthony Davis. “We’re focused on winning, not noise.”

The Lakers, now one loss away from playoff elimination, face heightened pressure to defend their home court’s honor. Edwards’ bold critique adds fuel to a narrative about shifting dynamics in NBA arenas, where tradition clashes with evolving fan cultures.

Whether his words galvanize the Timberwolves or backfire remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Anthony Edwards isn’t just making noise on the court—he’s becoming a headline magnet off it, unafraid to challenge the status quo