Erik Spoelstra compares Anthony Edwards to NBA legend
By Will Eudy
Anthony Edwards has been all over the news lately. The best player on the Minnesota Timberwolves has been showing out with the United States national team ahead of the FIBA World Cup, making a strong case to also be the best player on the US when official competition begins in a few days.
Finishing up exhibition play this past Sunday, Edwards helped the US go a perfect 5-0 leading up to World Cup play. He routinely showcased his explosive athletic ability and flashy moves on both ends of the floor, wowing the international audiences.
We have already seen US Head Coach Steve Kerr laud Anthony Edwards’ abilities, saying that he is unquestionably “the guy” for this team going forward. But recently, US assistant and Miami Heat Head Coach Erik Spoelstra made an even bigger statement about Edwards.
Erik Spoelstra made a big statement about Anthony Edwards.
When asked if any player on team USA reminds him of NBA legend Dwyane Wade, Spoelstra responded with high praise for Anthony Edwards. “It’s hard not to look at Anthony Edwards and see Dwyane Wade in him,” said Spoelstra.
Comparisons of current players to all-time legends are frequent these days and can often be exaggerated. But if anyone is familiar with Wade and who he was as a player, it is Erik Spoelstra. Spo has coached the Heat since 2008, and oversaw Wade become one of the best players in the world during his tenure.
To compare the 2006 Finals MVP and three-time NBA champion to Anthony Edwards is a major compliment to the budding young star. Even though Edwards is currently on a path to stardom in the NBA, a comparison to the generational talent of Dwyane Wade is still unprecedented.
These words from Spoelstra serve to further support the notion that the Minnesota Timberwolves have an otherworldly talent on their hands in Edwards. His participation with the US national team should only further prepare him for the upcoming NBA season in the Twin Cities.
