Anthony Edwards: Rising Star in the NBA Firmament
Anthony Edwards is rapidly emerging as one of the NBA's brightest stars. Voted No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, Edwards has made his mark through outstanding performances and staggering career-highs across various metrics last season.
Edwards's remarkable journey reached a significant milestone last season when he earned his first All-NBA selection. His capabilities further shone through as he finished seventh in MVP voting. His standout contributions were pivotal in leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals, underscoring his vital role in the team's success.
Edwards's scoring average increased notably from 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. His impact wasn't limited to scoring alone. Edwards also saw a rise in assists, going from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs. This improvement highlights his ability to adapt and elevate his game when it matters most.
Moreover, Edwards's efficiency also saw a boost. His shooting percentage climbed 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. Such numbers underscore his evolution into a more well-rounded and dependable player.
One cannot overlook Edwards's stint with Team USA, which afforded him the invaluable opportunity to observe and learn from some of the best athletes in the world. Reflecting on this experience, Edwards shared, "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices." These practices were not just routine sessions but lessons that shaped his approach to the game.
Edwards did not just watch; he absorbed. From LeBron James, he adopted a meticulous pregame routine. But it was Stephen Curry who left a more profound impact on his playing style. "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 revealed.
The ability to play without the ball, mastered by Curry, adds a layer of complexity that defenders struggle to counter. This off-ball movement requires not only tactical intelligence but also peak physical fitness, a testament to the hard work and rigorous training behind the scenes.
Incorporating off-ball movement into his arsenal, Edwards now offers a dynamic threat that keeps defenses on high alert. Watching Curry, he has begun to appreciate the anticipatory chemistry that great players build with their teammates over time. Success in this area doesn't happen overnight but through countless hours of practice and game experience.
As Edwards continues to evolve and add new dimensions to his game, his trajectory points upwards. The young phenom's blend of scoring prowess, playmaking, and newly acquired off-ball movement hints at a future filled with even greater accomplishments. If last season's performance is any indication, Anthony Edwards is well on his way to establishing himself as a cornerstone in the NBA's next generation of superstars.