At just 23 years old, Anthony Edwards has rapidly ascended as the cornerstone of the Minnesota Timberwolves, leading them to consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances—a first in the franchise’s history. Despite a disappointing end to the 2025 playoffs, Edwards’ trajectory remains upward, showcasing both his immense talent and areas for growth.
A Season of Milestones
Anthony Edwards’ 2024–25 season was marked by significant achievements. He averaged 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, ranking fourth in the league for scoring. Notably, he became the Timberwolves’ all-time leader in made three-pointers, surpassing Karl-Anthony Towns with his 976th career three-pointer. His performance earned him a third consecutive All-Star selection, solidifying his status among the NBA’s elite.
Playoff Performance: Promise and Pressure
In the 2025 playoffs, Edwards elevated his game, averaging 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists over 15 games with a true shooting percentage of 56.4%. He delivered standout performances, including a 30-point, nine-rebound, six-assist game in a dominant win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
However, the Western Conference Finals exposed areas for improvement. In Game 5, Anthony Edwards struggled, scoring 19 points on 7-of-18 shooting, including 1-of-7 from three-point range, as the Timberwolves fell 124–94 to the Thunder, ending their playoff run.
Leadership and Accountability
Despite the loss, Anthony Edwards demonstrated maturity and leadership. He acknowledged the team’s shortcomings and took responsibility for their performance, stating, “I just didn’t play well. They outplayed us.”
His commitment to growth is evident in his approach to the game and his role within the team. Edwards has expressed a desire to lead by example and continue developing his skills to better support his teammates.
Comparisons and Expectations
While Edwards’ explosive athleticism and scoring ability have drawn comparisons to legends like Michael Jordan and LeBron James, it’s essential to recognize that such parallels, though flattering, set high expectations. Edwards himself has downplayed these comparisons, focusing instead on carving out his unique path in the league.
At 23, Edwards is still in the early stages of his career, with ample time to refine his game and leadership qualities. His current trajectory suggests a promising future, but it’s premature to anoint him as the next LeBron.
The Road Ahead
The Timberwolves face critical decisions in the offseason, particularly regarding roster composition and support for Edwards. Evaluating the fit of players like Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert will be crucial in building a team that complements Edwards’ strengths and addresses areas of weakness exposed during the playoffs.
With a young core and a leader in Edwards committed to growth, the Timberwolves are well-positioned to remain competitive in the Western Conference. Continued development and strategic roster moves could propel them deeper into the playoffs in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
Anthony Edwards’ journey is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and leadership potential. While he may not yet be the next LeBron James, his accomplishments at 23 are impressive and indicative of a bright future. As he continues to evolve, Edwards has the opportunity to define his legacy on his terms, leading the Timberwolves to new heights in the NBA landscape.
