Anthony Edwards: The NBA's Rising Star Who's Learning from the Best
Anthony Edwards is rapidly emerging as one of the NBA's brightest stars. After a standout performance last season, the young guard has not only solidified his place in the league but also earned critical acclaim and fan admiration. Ranked No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, Edwards is making waves and showing immense growth across various aspects of his game.
Edwards's recent accolades reflect his impressive rise. Last season, he posted career highs in multiple metrics and earned his first All-NBA selection. Perhaps more notably, he finished seventh in MVP voting—a testament to his growing influence on the court. His contributions were pivotal in leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals, further underscoring his impact.
Playoff Surge
Anthony Edwards elevated his performance when it mattered most. His scoring average surged from 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to an impressive 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. This scoring increase was complemented by a rise in assists, from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs. Edwards also improved his shooting percentage, 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.
Learning from the Best
Part of Edwards's success can be attributed to his time with Team USA, where he had the opportunity to observe and learn from top-tier athletes. "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," Edwards shared, highlighting the invaluable experience gained from watching elite players up close.
During this time, Edwards adopted elements from the routines of NBA legends. "I think the best thing that I learned was from Steph. I took Bron's pregame routine, but Steph just playing without the ball," he revealed. Edwards's commitment to improving his off-ball movement—a hallmark of Stephen Curry's game—indicates his willingness to evolve and adapt. "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."
The Influence of Stephen Curry
Steph Curry's off-ball movement is renowned for its complexity and effectiveness. Great players like Curry have built anticipatory chemistry with their teammates over the years, making it difficult for defenders to counter their game. Maintaining high levels of off-ball activity also requires peak physical fitness, another area where Edwards is looking to excel.
By incorporating these elements into his game, Edwards is adding a new dimension that will challenge opposing defenses and make him an even more formidable player. Edwards's willingness to learn and adapt is setting him apart, and his future in the NBA looks incredibly promising.
As Anthony Edwards continues to evolve, his growing skill set and impressive work ethic are likely to keep him at the forefront of the NBA's emerging talents. The Minnesota Timberwolves and their fans have much to look forward to as this young star continues to shine ever brighter on the court.