Anthony Edwards is rapidly emerging as one of the NBA's brightest stars, and last season was a testament to his rising prominence. Voted No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, Edwards demonstrated his prowess on the court by posting career highs across a range of metrics.
Career Milestones and Accolades
The Minnesota Timberwolves' guard secured his first All-NBA selection last season, an accolade that underscores his growth and impact in the league. Further cementing his status, Edwards finished an impressive seventh in MVP voting. His contributions were pivotal in leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and in high-stakes scenarios.
Statistical Breakthroughs
Edwards's performance last season saw significant statistical improvements. His scoring average climbed from 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to an impressive 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. This uptick in scoring showcases his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.
Not only did his scoring improve, but Edwards also upped his playmaking, with assists rising from 5.1 per game in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs. His shooting efficiency followed a similar trend, with his overall shooting percentage increasing from 46% to 48%, and his three-point accuracy improving from 35.7% to 40% during the playoffs.
Learning from the Best
Edwards's development isn't just a product of his natural talent and hard work but also the valuable lessons he has learned from observing top-tier athletes. His time with Team USA offered him unique opportunities to absorb the habits and routines of some of the best players in the game.
"I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," Edwards reflected. These experiences provided him with insights that he has seamlessly integrated into his game. Specifically, he has started to emulate elements of LeBron James's pregame routine and Stephen Curry's off-ball movement.
"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 said.
Adopting Curry's Off-Ball Movement
Stephen Curry's off-ball movement has long been considered a crucial aspect of his game, adding a layer of complexity that defenders struggle to counter. For Edwards, incorporating this skill into his repertoire wasn't merely about movement but also understanding the anticipatory chemistry that Curry has built with his teammates over the years.
Maintaining high levels of off-ball activity requires peak physical fitness, something Edwards is now focusing on more seriously. His ability to get to open spots on the floor for easier shots is a testament to his commitment to becoming a more versatile and unpredictable scorer.
The Road Ahead
As Edwards continues to refine his game, his experiences and adaptability will be crucial for both his personal growth and the success of the Timberwolves. His significant statistical improvements and the lessons he’s absorbed from NBA legends show that he’s on a path towards stardom.
In a league brimming with talent, Anthony Edwards is carving out his niche, and if last season’s performance is any indicator, the future looks exceptionally bright for this young star.