Anthony Edwards is not settling after back-to-back Western Conference Finals exits. Following the Timberwolves’ elimination, the star guard made a firm promise, stating, “I’m going to work my butt off this summer. Nobody’s going to work harder than me this summer”. This commitment signals his understanding that personal growth is key to the team’s ultimate success. Edwards has always shown respect for basketball legends, even noting he approaches leadership differently from past greats.

His dedication to improvement is well-documented. Last offseason, he focused on his three-point shot and ended up leading the entire league in makes. He finished last season averaging 27.6 points per game while leading the league with 320 made three pointers. Now, with the playoffs revealing new challenges, the focus has shifted. The need for a more versatile scoring arsenal, especially in half-court settings, has become apparent. This has led him to look back at the games of two of the most iconic scorers in NBA history for inspiration.

The new development was reported by insider Shams Charania. He explained, “I’ve been told this offseason, Anthony Edwards’ number one focus, a new area of development, and that’s the post-up game. The mid-post, the high-post, low-post, establishing a mid-range game, and the fadeaway shot from the post, a la Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant”. Charania added, “I’m told he’s been watching a lot of tape of Kobe and MJ studying their game”. The Timberwolves believe this could become a go-to element in critical moments.

The idea is simple. When late game defenses clamp down and the pace slows, having reliable post moves and a Jordan style or Kobe style fadeaway can force defenses to change and create easier looks for teammates. This strategic pivot addresses a specific playoff need. While Edwards averaged 27.6 points last season, defenses can limit drives and three-pointers in a slowed-down game. Mastering a reliable mid-range and post game, like Jordan and Bryant used to dominate, would make him nearly unguardable. He has been in the team facility since June, diligently working to add these classic moves to his modern scoring arsenal. Mixing film study with repetitions meant to turn sketches into instinct.

This serious offseason decision to study all time greats demonstrates a player thinking several steps ahead. While Anthony Edwards has previously cited Kevin Durant as his personal GOAT, his willingness to learn from Jordan and Bryant shows a mature understanding of what it takes to win championships. This evolution in his game has not gone unnoticed by his peers, drawing admiration from one of the league’s most respected stars.

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What the ‘Former MVP’ had to say

This dedication has captured the attention of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. In a recent interview, the two time MVP was asked about the players he enjoys watching. He did not hesitate to include Edwards on his short list. “I like one player, Anthony Edwards. I like him a lot,” Giannis stated. He specifically praised two way players who lead by example both on and off the court.

Giannis highlighted the traits that make Edwards special, noting his preference for stars who are “an example for his teammates in behavior”. This admiration from a player of Giannis’s caliber underscores the respect Edwards has earned across the league. It is not just about scoring baskets, but about the total package of leadership and effort that defines a true superstar. This external validation reinforces the importance of Edwards’ offseason work.

The recognition extends beyond casual praise. In a recent survey of NBA executives, coaches, and scouts, Edwards was named the player expected to be the best American player by 2030. While he received just one vote for the 2026 MVP award, the long term outlook for his career is considered exceptionally bright. This blend of immediate offseason improvement and future potential positions Anthony Edwards as a central figure in the NBA’s next generation, with his old school new tricks approach leading the way.