Anthony Edwards is rapidly emerging as one of the NBA's most promising talents. His remarkable rise is evidenced by his recent accolades and standout performances. Last season marked a pivotal chapter in Edwards’s career, as he was voted No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, cementing his status among the league’s elite.
A Season to Remember
Edwards posted career highs across various metrics, showcasing his all-around game. This stellar performance earned him his first All-NBA selection, highlighting his growing influence on the court. Notably, he also finished seventh in MVP voting, a testament to the impact he had throughout the season.
His contributions were instrumental in propelling the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals. During the playoffs, Edwards elevated his game to new heights, increasing his scoring average from 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to 27.6 PPG. This scoring boost was accompanied by an increase in his assists, rising from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs.
Improvements Across the Board
Edwards's shooting efficiency also saw a significant uptick, climbing 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. These statistics underscore his ability to elevate his performance when it matters most.
The Team USA Experience
A crucial factor in Edwards’s rapid development has been his exposure to high-caliber talent and training routines, particularly during his time with Team USA. Reflecting on his Olympic experience, Edwards said, "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices." These sessions provided him with the opportunity to closely observe and learn from the routines of top-tier athletes.
Edwards specifically highlighted the influence of NBA superstars LeBron James and Stephen Curry on his development. "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 shared.
Learning from Legends
The impact of Curry’s off-ball movement on Edwards’s game cannot be understated. Stephen Curry's off-ball movement adds a layer of complexity that defenders struggle to counter, making it a valuable skill for any aspiring player. Incorporating this element into his own play, Edwards has started to utilize off-ball movement effectively, resulting in easier scoring opportunities.
Maintaining high levels of off-ball activity requires peak physical fitness, another area where Edwards has shown significant growth. His dedication to staying in top condition ensures that he can sustain the intense pace needed to capitalize on off-ball movement.
Furthermore, great players like Curry have built anticipatory chemistry with their teammates over the years. This kind of seamless coordination is something Edwards is beginning to foster with the Timberwolves, enhancing the overall dynamics of the team.
Anthony Edwards’s rapid ascent in the NBA hierarchy is a reflection of his hard work, adaptability, and the invaluable experiences gained from playing alongside some of the league’s best. As he continues to refine his game, the basketball world eagerly watches to see what new heights this rising star will reach.