NFL
By: Mark T. Wilson
Every good player needs that push to become great. Kobe Bryant could’ve been that for Anthony Edwards. Look at the players Kobe mentored before his death for further proof.
Since entering the league in 2020, Edwards has been labeled as one of the rising stars to take the mantle from LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry. While Ja Morant. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Victor Wembanyama all deserve their stake as the face of the league, it’s Anthony Edwards’ for as long as he wants it. But just imagine where he could be if Kobe was still here.
Remember a few seasons ago, many were touting Devin Booker as the next Kobe? The sad truth is, their games are not similar. In fact, there hasn’t been a player since he retired who came close to mirroring his game. Kobe had Michael Jordan to lean on. He had Shaq to help that Championship drive. He had players like Gary Payton and Hakeem Olajuwon teaching him defensive technique and footwork. That’s exactly what Edwards needs now. He needs that mentor.
As great as he is, Edwards is still just 22 years old. He’s without a doubt, the leader of the Minnesota Timberwolves. This season, he averaged 25.9 points to go along with 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. And he will only get better. But is he mentally at a point where he feels he’s untouchable?
Will Anthony Edwards Reach Elite Status
We can sit back and praise the “Mamba Mentality” and the reason that we can is because not everyone has it. Players speak of it as if it’s something that’s attainable but it’s easier said than done. Kobe was a rare breed but what made him stand out following his retirement was his mentorship with the younger players and showing them the ropes the same way the great ones did for him.
Jordan saw himself in Kobe and Kobe would have seen himself in Anthony Edwards. It’s no denying how special this kid is and is going to be. But there are still things that can halt his growth. For one, Minnesota has to keep winning. A team has to be built around Edwards which provides him with a chance to take that next step. That’s why Booker never ascended to greater heights. The Phoenix Suns failed him in that department.
For Edwards to reach “Face of The League” status, he has to prove that he’s worth it. Morant was on his way but off-the-court issues derailed that plan. Wemby is just a rookie and would need the San Antonio Spurs to start winning first. The Wolves are winning now and Edwards is leading the way.
Now comes the part that falls on his shoulders. He has to master the game from every aspect. Scoring comes easy to him as it did with Jordan, Kobe, and LeBron. But can he become elite on the defensive end? Can he be the clutch player not only the Wolves look to but the league in general? Can he win over fans who root against the Wolves? Is he marketable?
And where is his career-defining rivalry? Magic Johnson had the Boston Celtics. Michael Jordan had the Detroit Pistons. Kobe Bryant had the Spurs. Ant needs that nemesis who will bring the champion out of him.
This is the area where Kobe would be needed. Someone has to help guide Edwards through this process. Let him know that there are no friends on the court. Winning comes first above all else. Anthony Edwards has the “dog ” in him already but is it at the level where he can ascend to greatness?
