Defensive improvements
Edwards has taken strides as an on-ball defender. Using all his physical traits to his advantage, when Edwards is locked in he can be a pest on the ball. He has a tendency to jump passing lanes and go for steals (he’s a monster in transition so sometimes this pays off). These habits cause him to get beat back door on occasion. Tightening up on staying disciplined will help the team defensively.
Edwards never backs down from a challenge as he’s held his own while matched up with superstar talents. According to NBA.com tracking data, Ja Morant shot 10-26 (38%) while Anthony Edwards was his primary defender in their playoff matchup. Edwards has openly stated that he feels like he’s a great defender.
Anthony Edwards said he wanted the DeMar DeRozan defensive matchup tonight.
— Dane Moore (@DaneMooreNBA) February 12, 2022
I asked why he wanted that matchup.
"I feel like I'm a great defender. To answer your question, I feel like I'm a great defender."
Edwards is a good on-ball defender when he’s totally engaged. If he can limit those passing lane steal attempts or attempt them when it’s almost certain he can get a steal, he has the potential to be more than a plus defender. With all-time great rim protector Rudy Gobert on the roster, Edwards can apply more ball pressure because he has someone behind him who can clean up any mistake.
Edwards is a young star blossoming right before our eyes. He’s improved from year one to year two. There’s no telling what year three has in store for the career 20 PPG Atlanta native.