Recently, Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo named Anthony Edwards, Kawhi Leonard, and Anthony Davis as three players he really likes. When discussing these players, Giannis noted a preference for two-way play, which is evident when looking at this group of players.
“My preference is two-way players. I like one player, Anthony Edwards, Giannis said. I like him a lot. I like Anthony Davis. See what I mean? I mean, I like Leonard, I like him a lot. I like guys who can play defense and offense and are dogs. When we get on the court, you know they're always going to give 100%. They might not play well, but they're always going to give 100%.”
A dog who always gives 100% perfectly describes Edwards. Giannis also plays with a relentless motor and is an elite two-way player, so it makes sense that he is drawn to players who are similar to him.
This isn't the first time that Giannis has praised the Minnesota Timberwolves star. Earlier in the offseason, he listed Edwards and Damian Lillard as his favorite players in the league. Given that Ant is still just 24 years old, this likely won't be the last time that Giannis praises him either.
Edwards has the respect of Giannis and other great players
Undoubtedly, Edwards is an easy player to enjoy watching, even if you compete against him. Edwards' high-flying athleticism is incredibly entertaining. Plus, he is always improving his game, most recently becoming one of the best 3-point shooters in the league, netting the most total 3s last season. This, paired with Edwards' incredible motor and charismatic personality, makes him hard not to like and will always earn him respect from his peers.
Other all-time great players, including LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant, have also openly praised Edwards. I mean, how can you not? The 24-year-old is a top-five level player who could eventually become the best player in the world.
Entering his sixth season, another leap, especially as a playmaker, is a fair expectation for Ant. The Georgia product is already one of the best two-way stars and scorers in the league, but if he can add a bit more playmaking to his game, the sky is the limit for Edwards.
Of course, with Giannis praising Edwards and his uncertain future in Milwaukee, Wolves fans could be dreaming of a Giannis-Ant pairing. While this would be an incredible duo, it's highly unlikely given the Wolves' lack of future assets and cap space. Stranger things have happened, though. Nevertheless, Giannis shouting out Edwards (again) goes to show how well-respected he is around the league.