Anthony Edwards is earning recognition as one of the NBA's brightest upcoming talents, displaying a blend of athleticism, skill, and the ability to evolve his game. The former first overall pick is not just making waves on the court but is also earning respect from some of the biggest names in the sport.
A Meteoric Rise
Edwards's recent accomplishments underscore his rapid ascent in the league. Ranked No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, Edwards is solidifying his place among basketball's elite. Reflecting on his career trajectory, it's evident that last season was a pivotal period for the young star. Achieving career highs in various metrics, he secured his first All-NBA selection and finished seventh in MVP voting—a testament to his growing influence and capability on the court.
His contributions were instrumental in propelling the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals, a remarkable feat for both Edwards and the team. During the playoffs, his scoring average jumped from an already impressive 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to 27.6 PPG. Equally notable was the increase in his assists, rising from 5.1 per game to 6.5, highlighting his versatility and willingness to involve teammates in the play.
Playoff Performance and Improvement
Edwards's performance was not restricted to scoring and assists alone; his efficiency also saw substantial improvement. His shooting percentage climbed from an overall 46% in the regular season to 48% in the playoffs. Additionally, he improved his three-point shooting accuracy from 35.7% to an impressive 40%, illustrating his capacity to elevate his game during high-stakes moments.
Learning from the Best
Participation in Team USA provided Edwards with unique opportunities to observe and learn from some of the game’s greats. "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," he shared. This exposure went beyond skills and strategy, delving into the habits and routines that contribute to sustained excellence.
Among the invaluable lessons Edwards took away was from the two-time MVP 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 recounted.
Incorporating off-ball movement into his game adds a new dimension that defenses find challenging to counter. Moving without the ball requires not only skill but also peak physical fitness, as seen in Curry's relentless energy and activity on the court. By adopting these strategies, Edwards is expanding his offensive repertoire and becoming a greater threat in varied situations.
Building Chemistry
Great players build anticipatory chemistry with their teammates through sustained effort and understanding. For Edwards, integrating such off-ball movement into his play is not just a personal improvement; it's about enhancing team dynamics and creating opportunities for everyone. This evolution in his style is a nod to his growth mindset and commitment to broadening his impact on the floor.
As Edwards continues to draw from the experiences and teachings of seasoned superstars, his trajectory points to even greater accomplishments. His blend of raw talent, willingness to learn, and ability to adapt are molding him into a player who could very well shape the future of the NBA.