Why Anthony Edwards should be among the MVP favorites next season

As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, Anthony Edwards has emerged as a serious contender for the MVP award. With odds currently sitting at +1300 according to FanDuel (as of 8/29/24), Edwards holds the 6th best MVP odds, trailing Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Joel Embiid, and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Let’s break down why there is a solid shot at Edwards taking home the MVP award this coming season.

Usage Rate

One of the most telling statistics of the MVP race over the last decade has been usage rate. Last season, Edwards posted a usage rate of 32.2%, which ranked 5th in the entire NBA. This significant stat underscores just how central Ant is to the Timberwolves' offense.

Edwards’ usage rate has been on a consistent upward trajectory the past 3 seasons, increasing from 26.4% to 29.9% to 32.2% last season. If this trend continues, he could see his usage rate climb even higher, potentially into the 34-35% range, which would give Ant even more opportunities each night to boost his statistical resumé.

Impact at Both Ends

Edwards' usage rate should help boost his offensive numbers, which are crucial for his MVP case in the eyes of voters. But he'll also need to be well-rounded to compete with the versatility of the other MVP favorites.

Last season, Ant posted a career-high Defensive Win Shares (DWS) of 4.7, ranking 3rd in the NBA behind only Rudy Gobert and Nikola Jokić. This indicates he was one of the most impactful defenders in the league, and if he’s able to replicate this next season, there will be a strong argument for Edwards being the most impactful two-way player in the league - an argument that MVP voters will have a hard time ignoring.

Health

NBA seasons are long, and as we’ve seen in the past few seasons, health is a crucial factor in the MVP race. Edwards has proven to be one of the more durable players in the league, averaging 75.5 games per season over his entire career.

This durability gives him a significant edge over other MVP candidates, many of whom have struggled with injuries over the past few seasons. Ant's ability to stay on the court consistently not only boosts his own chances but also contributes to the Timberwolves’ overall success, which is also a key component of his MVP case.

Anthony Edwards has all the tools to make a serious MVP run in the 2024-25 season. With a top-5 usage rate, elite impact at both ends of the floor, and a track record of durability, Edwards is well-positioned to compete for the MVP award. If the Timberwolves are able to replicate their success of last season, Ant will represent a great value at +1300 entering the season.

Betting odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.