Anthony Edwards: The Next Michael Jordan or Simply a Rising Superstar?

In the NBA, comparisons are inevitable. As players emerge with exceptional talent, they’re often measured against the legends of the past. Recently, Anthony Edwards has been the subject of a particularly bold comparison — to none other than Michael Jordan. This comparison, sparked by comments from NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett and seemingly acknowledged by Jordan himself, has fueled a wave of excitement and debate across the basketball community. But what exactly has caused this comparison to arise? Is Anthony Edwards on the path to becoming the next MJ, or should we let him carve out his own legacy?

The Jordan Comparison: Hype or Reality?

The comparison began to gain traction when Kevin Garnett, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ iconic former MVP, made a striking statement: “I’m going to put my bread on young fell. He’s like a young ‘84 Jordan.” Garnett didn’t compare Edwards to the six-time champion version of MJ but to the early, raw version of Jordan, still finding his footing in the NBA. This perspective was backed by none other than Michael Jordan himself, who reportedly told sports analyst Chris Broussard that he also saw similarities between his younger self and the Timberwolves’ star.

However, Edwards himself has expressed some discomfort with the lofty comparison. In a podcast with Complex, Edwards made it clear: “I just want them to stop.” Despite this, Edwards’ combination of athleticism, confidence, and work ethic has made the comparison hard to ignore.

Edwards’ Rapid Rise in the NBA

While it may seem premature to compare a 22-year-old to the greatest basketball player of all time, Edwards has already displayed signs of a future MVP and potential franchise cornerstone. Since being drafted first overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2020, Edwards has helped transform a long-struggling franchise into a legitimate playoff contender. Before his arrival, the Timberwolves had only made the playoffs once in 17 seasons. Now, they’re on the verge of making the postseason for a third consecutive year.

At just 22 years old, Edwards is averaging 26.4 points per game, leading all players under 23 in scoring. He’s also contributing across the board with 5.2 assists per game and 5.4 rebounds, proving his value as a versatile player. Statistically, he’s joined elite company: only seven players in NBA history have averaged at least 25 points, five assists, and five rebounds at his age. This list includes names like Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Michael Jordan himself — all NBA legends or current superstars.

But it’s not just Edwards’ scoring ability that has drawn attention. His impact on the defensive end of the court has been just as impressive, and this is where the Jordan comparison starts to gain some credibility.

Defensive Impact: A Young Two-Way Star

One key characteristic that set Michael Jordan apart from many of his peers was his two-way dominance. Not only could Jordan score at will, but he was also an elite defender, eventually being named Defensive Player of the Year in 1988. While Edwards is still young, his defensive numbers suggest that he’s on a similar trajectory. Edwards is currently 12th in the NBA in defensive rating and third in defensive win shares, impressive marks for any player, let alone one still so early in his career.

At 22, Edwards has already surpassed both Jordan and Kobe Bryant in defensive impact for his age. Jordan, who is often remembered for his defensive prowess, didn’t crack the top 20 in defensive rating until he was 24 years old, the same year he won Defensive Player of the Year. Bryant, on the other hand, only finished in the top 20 in defensive rating once in his entire career. While Bryant was named to the All-Defensive Team 12 times, his advanced defensive stats never quite measured up to Jordan’s or Edwards’ at a young age.

Edwards’ ability to lock down opponents on the perimeter, combined with his athleticism and explosiveness, makes him one of the most complete young players in the league. Plays like his incredible block against the Indiana Pacers, where Edwards hit his head on the backboard while swatting the ball away, have quickly become highlights that showcase his relentless defensive effort and athletic superiority.

The Making of a Star: Work Ethic and Mentality

While Edwards’ natural talent is undeniable, what might be even more promising is his relentless work ethic and desire to improve. Edwards himself credits a draft workout with Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr as a turning point in his mentality. Kerr, who has coached the likes of Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, reportedly told Edwards during the 2020 draft workout that he wasn’t working hard enough. Kerr’s harsh feedback fueled a fire in Edwards, driving him to push himself harder in the gym and on the court.

This commitment to constant improvement, paired with his physical gifts, is what has led many to see echoes of Jordan in Edwards’ game. Jordan was notorious for his work ethic, famously creating rivalries and motivating himself to improve constantly. If Edwards can channel that same relentless drive, the sky is the limit for what he can achieve in the NBA.

Playoff Potential: Rising to the Occasion

Great players are often defined by their performance when the stakes are highest. For Edwards, the NBA playoffs have already become a stage where he shines. In two playoff appearances, Edwards’ numbers have risen significantly, jumping from regular-season averages of 24.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game to 31.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 5 rebounds in the postseason. Against the eventual NBA champion Denver Nuggets, Edwards elevated his game to new heights, delivering clutch performances and proving he can compete with the best.

Rising to the occasion in the playoffs is a hallmark of all-time greats, and Edwards has already shown that he has the mental toughness and skill to thrive when the pressure is on. In fact, only four players in NBA history have averaged 30 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds per game in the playoffs at age 21: LeBron James, Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Edwards.

Carving His Own Path

While the comparisons to Michael Jordan will continue, it’s important to remember that Anthony Edwards is still in the early stages of his career. Jordan’s shadow looms large over every great player that comes after him, but Edwards has the potential to craft his own legacy, one defined by his unique combination of athleticism, defense, and work ethic.

Whether he ultimately reaches Jordan’s level or not, Edwards is on a path to NBA stardom, and at just 22 years old, his best years are still ahead of him. The Timberwolves’ young star is already rewriting the narrative of a franchise that has long struggled for relevance, and if he continues on this trajectory, the sky is the limit. As Edwards himself has said, let’s stop the exaggerations and let him be his own man — a future MVP and potential NBA champion.