Anthony Edwards, the second-year guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, is drawing comparisons to Michael Jordan with his electrifying play in the playoffs. Despite his reluctance to be compared to the NBA legend, Edwards' gravity-defying dunks, swagger, and competitive fire have made him a breakout star.
Anthony Edwards, the 22-year-old guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, has taken the NBA playoffs by storm, captivating fans with his Jordan-esque play. From gravity-defying dunks to unmatched swagger, Edwards has drawn comparisons to the GOAT, Michael Jordan, prompting experts and fans alike to wonder if he could become the next face of the league.
However, Edwards himself has been quick to dismiss these comparisons, stating that he wants to be the best version of himself and not a mere imitation of Jordan. "He's the greatest of all time. I can't be compared to him," Edwards told FOX Sports.
Despite his reluctance, the similarities between Edwards and Jordan are undeniable. Both players possess an electric playstyle characterized by athleticism, aerial maneuvers, and an indomitable competitive spirit. Edwards' rise to stardom has been marked by consecutive 40-point performances, including a postseason career-high 43 points against the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference semifinals.
His impact on the Timberwolves is undeniable. In the first round of the playoffs, Edwards averaged 31 points, career-highs in field goal percentage (51.2%), rebounds (8), and assists (6.3), leading the team to their first series win in 20 years. His stats have since skyrocketed, placing him among the league's elite performers.
Edwards' play has not gone unnoticed. Since the start of the playoffs, he has generated the second-most video views across NBA social and digital platforms, trailing only LeBron James, the reigning face of the league. He has also gained more Instagram followers than any other player since the postseason began, skyrocketing from 2.1 million to 2.35 million.
His coaches, teammates, and inner circle have described Edwards as a humble and competitive player who is driven by the memory of his mother and grandmother, who both passed away from cancer when he was a teenager. Edwards has channeled his grief into his game, using it as an anesthetic for his pain.
Despite his brilliant play, Edwards remains focused on winning with his teammates rather than individual accolades. "Whoever they make the face of the league — they don't pick me or if they pick me — it doesn't really bother me. I'm just trying to win with my teammates. I don't really care about being the face of the league," he told FOX Sports.
His family believes that Edwards' true motivation stems from his desire to make his deceased loved ones proud. "His every move, he's trying to impress them and keep them smiling and keep them proud," said his brother, Antony.
As Edwards continues his breakout season, the comparisons to Michael Jordan will likely persist. However, for the young star, his focus remains on improving his game and leading his team to victory. Whether he becomes the next Jordan is irrelevant; he has more important people to impress.
