Anthony Edwards: The Rising Star of the NBA
Anthony Edwards is rapidly making a name for himself in the NBA, establishing a presence that commands attention. Ranked No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, Edwards's stellar performance last season speaks volumes about his growing influence on the court. He posted career highs across various metrics, leading to his first All-NBA selection and a commendable seventh place finish in the MVP voting.
Edwards's contributions were crucial in propelling the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. His scoring average saw a notable increase from 25.9 points per game (PPG) during the regular season to 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. This leap in performance wasn't limited to scoring alone; his assists also rose from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs. Additionally, Edwards improved his shooting percentage significantly, going 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.
Learning from the Best
Part of Edwards's remarkable improvement can be attributed to his time with Team USA, where he had the chance to observe and learn from some of the best athletes in the sport. "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," Edwards remarked. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into the routines and techniques of top-tier players.
Edwards singled out Stephen Curry as a significant influence, particularly in learning to play without the ball. "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. This off-ball movement has added a new dimension to his game, making him even more challenging to defend.
Incorporating Off-Ball Movement
Edwards's development in off-ball movement is particularly noteworthy. Great players like Stephen Curry have developed anticipatory chemistry with their teammates over the years, making their off-ball activity exceedingly effective. For Edwards, adopting this facet of the game requires peak physical fitness and a keen understanding of the game. It's a testament to his dedication and desire to elevate his performance that he has begun to incorporate these elements into his repertoire.
Edwards's ability to adapt and learn from the best has not gone unnoticed. His increased off-ball movement adds a layer of complexity for defenders, paving the way for easier shots and making the Timberwolves' offensive schemes more versatile. With his improved fitness and understanding of off-ball play, Edwards is on a path to becoming one of the most well-rounded players in the league.
The Path Forward
As Edwards continues to refine his skills and gain experience, the sky's the limit for this young star. His blend of scoring, playmaking, and now off-ball movement makes him a multifaceted threat on the court. The Timberwolves are undoubtedly excited about his progression and the potential it brings to the team's future.
Edwards's journey in the NBA so far is a narrative of hard work, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. By learning from legends and applying those lessons, he is fast becoming an elite player himself. His achievements last season are a strong indication that Anthony Edwards is not just a rising star, but a burgeoning superstar in the NBA. With each game, he continues to prove why he is considered one of the most promising talents in the league today.