Heading into his sixth season in the league, many are expecting even more growth from Anthony Edwards. Recent discussion has been around Ant improving as a post-up threat and mid-range scorer. Nevertheless, playmaking is another logical area of improvement for the Minnesota Timberwolves superstar. During media day, Edwards discussed how he's worked on ball handling this summer.
"My physical therapist, D-Hines, he's the best in the world by the way, he gave me these gloves, ball handling gloves, Edwards said. I think that was the best idea he's ever had, and me and C-Hines, have been working on ball handling all summer. And I've never been able to handle the ball this good in my life."
Last season, Edwards averaged 4.5 assists, but he also committed 3.2 turnovers. Tightening up his handle could help Edwards reach another level as an all-around player. Considering Edwards is already a fringe top-five player and a clear top-10 player, this thought should terrify the rest of the league.
Edwards' growth as a ball-handler could help him and the Wolves reach new heights
Edwards is already one of the NBA's best scorers, averaging 27.6 points last season while becoming one of the league's best 3-point shooters. However, Edwards was the most btlized player in the league, and double teaming him was a clear way to limit Ant.
If Edwards can tighten up his handle while making better reads as a passer, double-teaming him won't be nearly as effective. Undoubtedly, creating a game plan around Edwards would be infinitely more challenging if he reaches another level as a playmaker. At 24 years old and given the work he's put in during the summer, it's fair to expect that Edwards takes a leap as a playmaker.
The Wolves are an elite team with title hopes. Nevertheless, their main flaw is playmaking and ball handling. Notably, Mike Conley turns 38 before the start of the season, and Rob Dillingham faces an uncertain role entering his second season. If Edwards can improve as a playmaker, he could become the Wolves' lead guard and help solve the team's main concern.
Edwards making better reads when he's double-teammed and helping orchestrate the offense are specific areas of growth for him as a lead guard.
Edwards is already one of the league's best players, but his improvements as a playmaker could help him and the team reach the next level. Overall, Edwards' quote should delight Wolves fans and put the rest of the league on notice.