Anthony Edwards is rapidly emerging as one of the NBA's brightest stars, and last season was a testament to his rising prominence. Edwards's remarkable performance saw him voted No. 10 on the CBS Sports Top 100 NBA players list, an accolade that underscored his growing impact on the league.
Throughout the season, Edwards posted career highs across various metrics, culminating in his first All-NBA selection. His contribution went beyond individual statistics; Edwards's performances were instrumental in leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals. Demonstrating his clutch abilities, Edwards's scoring average soared from 25.9 points per game (PPG) in the regular season to 27.6 PPG in the playoffs. Similarly, his assists per game increased from 5.1 in the regular season to 6.5 in the playoffs.
Edwards's overall efficiency was also on an upward trajectory. His shooting percentage climbed from 46% overall and 35.7% from three-point range in the regular season to an impressive 48% overall and 40% from beyond the arc in the playoffs. These improvements highlight not only his scoring prowess but also his adaptability and growth as a well-rounded player under the intense pressure of playoff basketball.
Reflecting on his experiences and growth, Edwards expressed the significant impact of his time with Team USA. "I think the best part about the whole [Olympic experience] was the practices," he said. This exposure allowed him to observe and assimilate the routines and practices of top-tier athletes, contributing to his own development.
Among the many lessons Edwards gleaned from his Team USA stint, observing the off-ball movement of Stephen Curry stood out. "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 noted.
Incorporating off-ball movement into his game has added a new dimension to Edwards's play. Great players like Curry have built this anticipatory chemistry with their teammates over the years, making it challenging for defenders to counter. Edwards's adoption of such techniques not only showcases his willingness to evolve but also speaks to his basketball IQ and dedication to continuous improvement.
Maintaining high levels of off-ball activity requires peak physical fitness, which Edwards has evidently embraced. His ability to sustain this movement and remain effective throughout the games is a clear indicator of his commitment to conditioning and his overall professional approach to the game.
With these newfound strategies and his intrinsic talent, Edwards finished seventh in MVP voting last season, further validating his status among the elite players of the NBA. His journey from a promising rookie to a key player in the Timberwolves' success narrative is compelling and reflective of his immense potential.
As Edwards continues to integrate these elements into his gameplay, the NBA community eagerly anticipates his future endeavours. His willingness to learn and adapt, coupled with his natural abilities, positions him as a cornerstone for the Minnesota Timberwolves and a player to watch in the seasons to come.