Anthony Edwards is known for his game, his soundbites, and his shoes, among other things. But if there’s one thing that made Edwards stand out, it’s how he’s never afraid of the moment. 

Edwards went for 44 points, the sixth time he scored at least 40 points this season. The game has definitely slowed down for the three-time NBA All-Star, who has gotten much better in how he probes defenses for easy baskets and open looks for teammates. That he did that against Kevin Durant, the player he grew up idolizing, and the Phoenix Suns was icing on the cake. 

Since being drafted first overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2020 NBA Draft, Edwards has seized the opportunities given to him and even assumed the alpha role despite playing with the likes of Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell. His usage rate has increased every year and while his efficiency hasn’t caught up to his rising counting stats, the 23-year old has shown that he is capable of producing nonetheless. 

Being the face of the league was never really in Edwards’ plans, unlike those that like to ink themselves as the “Chosen 1” or have a nickname like “Born Ready”. Edwards only wanted to be the best, taking on whoever was in front of him. Even against older peers, Edwards has always been assertive and while it can come off as arrogance, he has the numbers to back it up. 

Edwards is not even close to 25, so there’s clearly a ton of room to grow for him. Critics will point to his efficiency (or at times lack thereof) and how his attitude can be taken the wrong way. You can charge that to youth and perhaps the need for the Wolves to surround him with a veteran who can take him under his wing. Besides, he has had opportunities to learn from those around him. 

Edwards’ stints with Team USA have also been valuable from both a basketball and personal standpoint. He was able to measure himself against the game’s best and even got to contribute in some games. Moreover, his time with the likes of Durant, Stephen Curry, and LeBron James taught him the finer things of NBA stardom. 

As it stands, though, Edwards is a refined post game away from unlocking his potential. That one takes a lot of work, but if he approaches it the way Kobe Bryant did, he can utilize it the same way the Black Mamba did later in his career. Edwards can also be a pest defensively, and he’s averaged 1.3 steals so far in his career. Right now, he’s living on athleticism and energy, but as he gets older, smarts will help him avoid becoming a defensive blackhole. 

At the moment, there are maybe a handful of players ahead of Anthony Edwards vying for the title of being the best player in the NBA. That’s not something on Edwards’ mind, though, especially since his efforts now and when he ends his career will speak for itself when all is said and done.