Anthony Edwards has swiftly ascended through the ranks to solidify his place among the NBA's elite. Voted No. 10 on CBS Sports' Top 100 NBA players list, Edwards's performance last season showcased his potential to be a superstar in the league.
Edwards’s breakout season was marked by career highs across multiple metrics, and he capped it off by earning his first All-NBA selection. His impact on the league is undeniable, as evidenced by his seventh-place finish in MVP voting. These achievements have not only cemented his reputation but also highlighted his critical role in propelling the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals.
Playoff Performance
In the crucible of the playoffs, Edwards's contributions shone even brighter. His scoring average soared from 25.9 points per game (PPG) during the regular season to an impressive 27.6 PPG in the postseason. Such growth under pressure speaks volumes about his ability to elevate his game when it matters most. This scoring surge was complemented by a notable rise in his assists, which climbed from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs.
Additionally, Edwards's shooting efficiency improved during the high-stakes games. His overall shooting percentage went up from 46% in the regular season to 48% in the playoffs, while his three-point accuracy increased from 35.7% to 40%. These statistics underscore his adaptability and effectiveness against the tougher defenses encountered in playoff basketball.
Learning from the Best
Edwards's development has been influenced by his stint with Team USA, where he had the opportunity to observe and learn from some of the NBA's greatest talents. Reflecting on this experience, Edwards remarked, "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices."
Among the many lessons he garnered, Edwards credits two NBA legends for shaping his recent growth. "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," he shared.
Incorporating Off-Ball Movement
Edwards's emphasis on off-ball movement, inspired by Stephen Curry, adds a strategic dimension to his game. Observing Curry's off-ball activity taught him the value of creating opportunities through constant motion. "Steph just playing without the ball" has translated into Edwards actively incorporating these elements into his playing style, leading to more efficient scoring opportunities.
This renewed focus on off-ball movement not only reflects Edwards’s adaptability but also aligns with the strategies of successful teams. Integrating these skills requires peak physical fitness, an area where Edwards has shown significant improvements. Great players like Curry have mastered the art of building anticipatory chemistry with their teammates, a skill Edwards is steadily cultivating.
The Path Ahead
As Edwards continues to refine his game, the basketball community awaits with bated breath to see how his new skills will translate into the upcoming seasons. His rapid rise, combined with the ability to learn and adapt from the best, positions him as a formidable force in the NBA.
The Timberwolves will undoubtedly look to leverage his enhanced skill set, as they aim to build on their playoff success. With Edwards at the helm, Minnesota fans have much to be optimistic about as they anticipate even greater heights for their budding superstar.