Anthony Edwards is rapidly emerging as one of the NBA's brightest stars. His ascension was solidified last season when he was voted No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, a testament to his growing influence and exceptional performance on the court.
The young guard posted career highs across various metrics last season, a feat that did not go unnoticed as he earned his first All-NBA selection. Edwards capped off his sensational season by finishing seventh in MVP voting, underscoring his importance to the Minnesota Timberwolves' success. His contributions were pivotal in leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals.
Edwards's impact was particularly pronounced during the playoffs. He elevated his game when it mattered most, increasing his scoring average from 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. His playmaking abilities also shone through, with his assists rising from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs.
His efficiency was equally impressive. Edwards's overall shooting percentage climbed from 46% in the regular season to an even more efficient 48% in the playoffs. His three-point shooting also saw a significant boost, improving from 35.7% in the regular season to 40% during the postseason. These statistics highlight not only Edwards's scoring prowess but also his ability to perform under pressure.
Learning from the Best
Edwards's rapid development can be partly attributed to his experiences with Team USA, where he had the chance to closely observe and learn from the routines and practices of top-tier athletes. "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," Edwards shared, emphasizing the value of being around elite players and coaches.
In particular, Edwards has taken to heart lessons from two of the game's greatest players—LeBron James and Stephen Curry. "I think the best thing that I learned was from Steph. I took Bron's pregame routine, but Steph just playing without the ball. So like, the last few days [with the Timberwolves] we've been playing five on five, I just be cutting, getting out of the way, and I get easy shots. So I think I learned the most from Steph," Edwards explained.
Incorporating off-ball movement into his game has been a significant evolution for Edwards. Stephen Curry's off-ball movement is renowned for adding a layer of complexity that defenders struggle to counter, and Edwards's adoption of this versatile playing style only makes him more formidable. "I just be cutting, getting out of the way, and I get easy shots," he noted, highlighting how Curry's influence has helped him find more scoring opportunities without the ball in his hands.
The Physical Demands of Excellence
This shift in playing style requires Edwards to maintain peak physical fitness, as high levels of off-ball activity demand constant movement and energy. It's a challenging adjustment, but one that Edwards seems committed to making. Great players like Curry have built anticipatory chemistry with their teammates over the years, and Edwards appears to be on a similar path in developing synergy with his Timberwolves colleagues.
With these new facets to his game, Edwards is set to become an even more versatile and dynamic player. His ability to score, create for others, and now play effectively without the ball makes him an all-around threat on the court. As he continues to learn from the best and refine his craft, the ceiling for Edwards's potential seems limitless.
As the Timberwolves look ahead to the upcoming season, much will rely on Edwards's continued growth and his ability to lead the team further into the playoffs. If his trajectory over the past season is any indication, fans and analysts alike should be prepared for more exhilarating performances from Anthony Edwards.
In the high-stakes world of professional basketball, it's rare to see a player make such rapid strides in both skill and recognition. Anthony Edwards is proving he has the talent, the work ethic, and the intelligence to become one of the league's most distinguished superstars. His journey is just beginning, and it promises to be one worth watching.