Anthony Edwards: Rising Superstar of the NBA
Anthony Edwards is making waves as one of the NBA's most promising talents. Voted No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, his rapid ascent is a testament to his dedication and skill.
Last season was a breakout year for Edwards, who posted career highs across various metrics, earning his first All-NBA selection and finishing seventh in MVP voting. His performance was instrumental in propelling the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals. In the regular season, Edwards averaged 25.9 points per game (PPG), which surged to 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. Such an increase in scoring under playoff pressure is a rarity and highlights his capability to perform when it matters most.
Not only did Edwards increase his scoring, but his assists also saw a notable rise, from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs. Such improvements extend beyond mere numbers—they indicate a growing maturity and understanding of the game.
His shooting accuracy also improved when it counted the most. Edwards's shooting percentage climbed from 46% overall and 35.7% from three-point range in the regular season to an impressive 48% overall and 40% from beyond the arc during the playoffs. Such stats are indicative of a player who thrives under pressure and continually adapts and evolves.
A significant factor in Edwards's development has been his experiences with Team USA, where he had the opportunity to observe and learn from some of the best athletes in the world. "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," Edwards remarked, highlighting the critical influence of his time with elite players.
Two players, in particular, have had a profound impact on his game: LeBron James and Stephen Curry. From James, Edwards adopted a pregame routine that prepares him mentally and physically for the rigors of each game. However, it is Stephen Curry's style of play that has had the most significant influence on his recent performances. "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 repertoire has added a new dimension to Edwards's game, making him a more unpredictable and difficult player to defend. Stephen Curry's brilliance lies not just in his shooting but in his relentless off-ball movement, creating opportunities through constant motion. For Edwards, maintaining high levels of off-ball activity requires peak physical fitness, underscoring his commitment to improving every aspect of his game.
The influence of top-tier athletes and the ability to adapt and incorporate new skills speak volumes about Edwards's potential. As he continues to develop anticipatory chemistry with his teammates, similar to the synergy seen in partnerships like Curry's with the Golden State Warriors, the Minnesota Timberwolves can look forward to a future where Edwards leads them to even greater heights.
With his remarkable rise, increased scoring, improved assists, and refined shooting, Edwards is quickly becoming a cornerstone for the Timberwolves and one of the NBA's most exciting young talents. His blend of raw athleticism, honed skills, and the invaluable lessons learned from the best in the game position him as a genuine star in the making.