Anthony Edwards is swiftly solidifying his place among basketball's elite. With a stellar performance last season, he has been recognized with significant accolades and is now a standout player for the Minnesota Timberwolves. His rise is reflected in his No. 10 spot on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list and his first-ever All-NBA selection.
A Season for the Ages
The past season was a pivotal one for Edwards. He posted career highs across various metrics and finished seventh in the MVP voting. His contributions were crucial in propelling the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals, a feat that underscores his growing influence and prowess on the court.
Edwards's scoring average saw a notable increase from 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to an impressive 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. His all-around play improved as well, with his assists rising from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 per game in postseason play. These statistics highlight Edwards's ability to elevate his game when it matters most.
Elevating His Play in Crunch Time
In addition to his scoring and assists, Edwards's shooting efficiency also improved during the playoffs. He boosted his shooting percentage 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 postseason. This uptick in performance showcases his capability to perform under pressure and his adaptability during high-stakes games.
Edwards's evolution is also attributed to his time with Team USA. He had the unique opportunity to observe and learn from the best in the game. "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," Edwards said. This close interaction with top-tier athletes provided him with invaluable insights into professional habits and routines.
Learning from Legends
Among the many takeaways from his time with Team USA, Edwards was particularly influenced by the practices of 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 explained.
Incorporating off-ball movement into his game has added a new dimension to Edwards's play style. Stephen Curry, renowned for his relentless off-ball movement, has set a high standard. This aspect of the game introduces additional challenges for defenders and requires peak physical fitness to execute effectively. Great players like Curry have built anticipatory chemistry with their teammates, contributing to their effectiveness without the ball.
Edwards's adoption of these techniques demonstrates his commitment to evolving as a player. By studying and emulating the routines of basketball legends, he is enhancing his own game and becoming a more versatile and unpredictable player on the court.
Looking Forward
As Anthony Edwards continues to develop and refine his skills, the NBA community eagerly anticipates his future accomplishments. His trajectory suggests that he is not only destined for greatness but also poised to bring significant success to the Minnesota Timberwolves. With a blend of natural talent, hard work, and insightful learning from the game's best, Edwards's journey in the NBA is one to watch.