Entering his sixth NBA season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards has fast become one of the league’s most exciting young stars, generating growing anticipation around his potential to become the next face of the NBA. Despite his impressive scoring and overall game, Edwards’ playmaking remains an area requiring development. This offseason, he is concentrating on enhancing this particular skill, which experts believe could elevate him to an unstoppable level.
ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin highlighted Edwards’ efforts to improve his playmaking during a recent discussion on NBA on ESPN, emphasizing that mastering this element could unlock new heights in his offensive game.
He’s trying to add the playmaking piece to the offensive repertoire. If he gets that, I mean, the sky is the limit.
Dave McMenamin said
Mentorship from Coach Chris Hines Aims to Refine Edwards’ Game Details
McMenamin shared insights from a conversation with Edwards’ coach Chris Hines during last season’s playoffs, where Hines detailed his behind-the-scenes work helping Edwards refine the finer points of his gameplay. Part of this tutelage involves studying highlights of legendary figures such as Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, with the goal of inspiring Edwards and showing him how to develop a more complete offensive game.
While Edwards has demonstrated exceptional talent, his playmaking shortcomings have affected both his personal growth and the Timberwolves’ team success in recent seasons. The team reached the Western Conference Finals in the 2023-24 season but was defeated by the Dallas Mavericks led by Luka Doncic. Edwards and the Timberwolves advanced again to the Western Conference Finals last year but lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who went on to claim the NBA championship.
Excitement Builds Among Timberwolves Fans for Edwards’ Upcoming Season
Last season, Edwards posted strong statistics, averaging 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 79 games, reflecting steady improvement across multiple categories. His offseason work and enthusiasm for the new season were evident in a recent post on his social media platform, Instagram Threads, where he simply wrote,
Back in dat mode again
Anthony Edwards wrote
This short message generated considerable excitement among the Timberwolves’ fanbase, with most supporters eagerly anticipating his performance for the 2025-26 NBA season. Despite some critical comments from detractors, it remains clear that Edwards is a player to watch as he continues refining his game.
Concerns Raised Over Edwards’ Future if NBA Finals Remain Elusive
Following Edwards’ impressive 2025 playoff run, which included eliminating major teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors, many believed a new superstar had firmly arrived. However, consecutive losses in the Western Conference Finals stirred questions about the Timberwolves’ ability to reach the NBA Finals, fueling speculation about Edwards’ long-term commitment to Minnesota.
NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins recently voiced a prediction that if Edwards does not reach an NBA Finals, he may seek a trade. Perkins noted the financial aspect as well, pointing out Edwards’ annual salary of approximately $48 million, which, although substantial, does not place him among the league’s absolute top earners—an example being Bradley Beal’s $52 million contract.
If Anthony Edwards don’t reach the NBA Finals, he’s going to request a trade from Minnesota…$45M is not really at the top of the top, Bradley Beal is making $52M.
Kendrick Perkins said on ESPN last month
Edwards’ current contract still has four years remaining, assuring any team interested in acquiring him would be investing significantly. Should Edwards decide Minnesota is not the right place to achieve his championship aspirations, a trade could shape the league landscape in the near future.
Implications of Edwards’ Playmaking Development for His Career and the Timberwolves
The emphasis on improving playmaking reveals both Edwards’ commitment to growth and the Timberwolves’ hopes for a deeper playoff push. As McMenamin stated, adding stronger playmaking skills could make Edwards virtually unstoppable on offense, elevating him into elite company among NBA stars. The mentorship from coach Chris Hines and inspiration drawn from iconic players like Jordan and Bryant could prove pivotal in this transformation.
For the Timberwolves, having Edwards evolve into a versatile leader capable of creating opportunities for teammates can translate into genuine title contention potential. As the team looks forward to the 2025-26 season, fans and analysts alike will closely watch how these improvements manifest on the court, impacting Minnesota’s standing in an increasingly competitive Western Conference.