Anthony Edwards is rapidly establishing himself as one of the NBA's emerging superstars. This rising trajectory has culminated in his recent placement at No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, a testament to his burgeoning influence on the court.
The Minnesota Timberwolves guard posted career highs across several key metrics last season, which not only earned him his first All-NBA selection but also saw him finish seventh in MVP voting. Edwards’s impressive performance was instrumental in leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals, illustrating his role as a pivotal player in high-stake games.
Elevating His Play
Edwards's growth is evident in his improved statistics from the regular season to the playoffs. His scoring average climbed from 25.9 points per game (PPG) during the regular season to an impressive 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. Not just a scorer, Edwards's overall game saw significant enhancements; his assists went up from 5.1 per game to 6.5 during the playoffs. Additionally, his shooting percentages saw noticeable improvements, rising from 46% overall and 35.7% from three-point range in the regular season to 48% overall and 40% from beyond the arc in the playoffs.
Learning from the Best
Part of Edwards’s meteoric rise can be credited to his experiences with Team USA, where he had the chance to observe and learn from the routines and practices of some of the NBA’s top-tier athletes. Reflecting on these invaluable lessons, Edwards noted, "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices."
These interactions offered Edwards a unique perspective on what separates good players from great ones. He particularly highlighted the insights he gained from basketball icons like 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 remarked.
Incorporating New Skills
Stephen Curry’s masterful off-ball movement is something Edwards has started to integrate into his own game. This nuance adds layers to his offensive arsenal, making him a more versatile threat. "I just be cutting, getting out of the way, and I get easy shots," Edwards disclosed, highlighting how small adjustments can lead to significant improvements in scoring efficiency.
Integrating these skills involves not only a change in playing style but also an elevated level of physical fitness. The ability to maintain high levels of off-ball activity is a testament to one's conditioning and stamina. Edwards's dedication to this aspect of his game reflects his commitment to reaching the upper echelons of basketball skill.
Future Outlook
The collaborative chemistry with teammates, a hallmark of Curry's game, is another area where Edwards sees room for growth. The best teams share an almost telepathic connection, especially in anticipating movements and passes. Building this rapport will be crucial for Edwards as he continues to mesh his individual skills with the team dynamics of the Timberwolves.
Looking ahead, Anthony Edwards’s blend of natural talent, learned skill, and work ethic positions him as a cornerstone for the Timberwolves and a potential perennial All-Star in the NBA. His rapid ascent is a promising sign for Minnesota fans and a stern warning to competitors across the league. With each game, Edwards is not just playing to win; he’s crafting a legacy.