BREAKING: Anthony Edwards Fined $50,000 for Vulgar Taunt Toward Lakers Crowd

Anthony Edwards in Action

April 22, 2025 — Los Angeles, CA Minnesota Timberwolves star guard Anthony Edwards has been fined $50,000 by the NBA for directing a vulgar and obscene taunt toward the Los Angeles Lakers crowd during Saturday night’s intense matchup, the league announced Monday afternoon.

The incident occurred in the fourth quarter of the Timberwolves’ heated game at Crypto.com Arena, where Edwards appeared to gesture and shout profanities at a section of the home crowd after sinking a clutch three-pointer. The act, captured on live television and widely shared across social media platforms, sparked immediate backlash and debate among fans and analysts alike.

League Statement

In a formal statement, the NBA’s executive vice president of basketball operations, Joe Dumars, cited “unsportsmanlike and offensive behavior toward fans” as the primary reason for the fine.

“The NBA holds its players to a high standard of conduct both on and off the court,” the statement read. “Public gestures or language that cross the line of professionalism, particularly in front of a crowd and national audience, will not be tolerated.”

Edwards' Response

Anthony Edwards has yet to publicly comment on the fine. However, sources close to the Timberwolves organization say the 22-year-old is expected to release a statement or speak to the media at the team’s next availability.

Reactions Around the League

The incident has ignited discussions around player expression, crowd provocation, and the balance between competitive fire and professionalism.

Former NBA players weighed in across various platforms, with some defending Edwards' passion, while others called the taunt “unnecessary and immature.”

Bigger Picture

This marks the largest fine of Edwards' career to date and underscores the NBA’s ongoing efforts to curb unsportsmanlike behavior particularly in high-stakes or nationally televised games.

Despite the controversy, Edwards' performance remains the highlight of the night. He finished with 38 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, leading the Timberwolves to a narrow 112–108 victory over the Lakers.

As the playoffs loom and tensions rise, this incident serves as a reminder that while emotions run high, professionalism must remain intact both on and off the court.