As the Minnesota Timberwolves face a 3-1 deficit in the Western Conference Finals, one question is on everyone’s mind: Is Anthony Edwards the next Michael Jordan? Despite the tough position his team finds itself in, the hype surrounding Edwards continues to grow, with some comparing his potential to that of the greatest to ever play the game.
ESPN’s Mike Greenberg has been one of the most vocal supporters of Edwards, placing him in the loftiest of categories. Greenberg believes Edwards is the brightest young star in the NBA, even preferring him over other prominent talents such as Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic.
“You can include Luka, you can include Giannis, you can include Jokic, and you can include anyone you want. Over the next 10 years, the guy I think will win more championships than anyone else is Anthony Edwards,” Greenberg asserted.
The praise for Edwards didn’t stop there. Greenberg also compared the Timberwolves’ star to some of the best players in NBA history.
“If I had to start a team with any of them right now, that is who I would take. He is 22 years old. He does it on both sides of the floor. He is the heir to Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. He is not faking it, trying to be like Mike, or trying to adopt the Mamba mentality; he just has it,” Greenberg said.
This comparison is not made lightly. Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant are considered two of the most competitive and skilled players the NBA has ever seen. Their legacies are built on their relentless drive, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. For Greenberg to see these qualities in Edwards speaks volumes about the young guard’s potential.
The comparisons to Jordan and Bryant have been fueled by Edwards’ performances in the postseason. His clutch performances and fiery, competitive energy have been on full display. In Game 4 against the Dallas Mavericks, Edwards played a crucial role in keeping the Timberwolves’ season alive.
Edwards hit two clutch jumpers to maintain the Wolves’ late lead as the Mavericks attempted a comeback. He finished the game with 29 points on 11-of-25 shooting, along with 10 rebounds and nine assists, narrowly missing a triple-double. Edwards played for 40 minutes, showcasing his endurance and competitive spirit.
“This kid was born with the same stuff those guys were born with,” Greenberg said. “He will wake up your guy any day of the week, and your guy cannot wake him up.”
“Over the next ten years, the guy I think will win more championships than any of them, is Anthony Edwards. … He is the heir to Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.”
😯 @Espngreeny pic.twitter.com/DiSVgc5Cmh
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 30, 2024
Despite the comparisons and praise, Edwards and the Timberwolves are on the brink of elimination. An early playoff exit could change the narrative around him, with critics potentially cooling the “heir to Michael Jordan” talk. However, Edwards’ ability to deliver in clutch moments suggests he has the mental toughness needed to handle such pressure.
The Timberwolves will attempt to stave off elimination once again at home in Game 5 against the Mavericks. Facing the formidable duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Edwards will need to do his best to keep Minnesota’s championship hopes alive.
The comparison of Anthony Edwards to Michael Jordan is both intriguing and daunting. While it’s premature to anoint any player as the next Jordan, Edwards’ blend of athleticism, skill, and competitive fire has certainly drawn attention. The key for Edwards will be consistency and the ability to elevate his game in critical moments, just as Jordan and Bryant did throughout their careers.
It’s important to recognize the weight of such comparisons. Jordan and Bryant weren’t just exceptional players; they were transcendent figures who defined their eras. For Edwards, the challenge will be to carve out his own legacy while channeling the qualities that made Jordan and Bryant legendary.
As the Timberwolves fight to extend their playoff run, all eyes will be on Edwards. Whether he can live up to these lofty expectations remains to be seen, but the journey promises to be an exciting one for NBA fans.
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