Anthony Edwards becomes an NBA All-Star if he reaches 3 goals
By Ronald Moody
Anthony Edwards’ improvement as a shooter, defender, and leader
Two All-Star guards from last season moved east: Dejounte Murray and Donovan Mitchell.
Achieving All-Star status in the Western Conference will take a substantial commitment from Edwards to play better because Devin Booker, Ja Morant, Steph Curry, Luka Doncic, and Chris Paul remain in the conference.
A top candidate for Most Improved Player, Edwards needs to ensure he continues increasing his efficiency on the offensive end. His field goal percentage (.417 to .441) and 3-point percentages (.329 to .357) increased slightly from Year 1 to Year 2.
Since ballyhooed perimeter defender Patrick Beverley departed, Edwards will be responsible for guarding the opposing team’s star guards. His defensive box plus-minus was 111th in the league at -0.4. All the Western Conference guards from last season ranked ahead of him, with Donovan Mitchell trending closest at 105th with -0.3.
Lastly, Morant took a tremendous leap in his third season to guide the Grizzlies to the top of the league and the playoffs. It felt like the team took on his massive chip-on-the-shoulder identity and harnessed it to win in the division. The Timberwolves need the same from Anthony Edwards. Beverley gave the team heart with his inspired play. Hopefully, Edwards learned and will generate more wins and an All-Star berth.
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Hopefully, the off-the-court incident where Edwards received a $40,000 fine led him to understand that a mature and professional leader is required in the league and his organization.