Timberwolves' biggest worry should be losing Anthony Edwards to this franchise

The Minnesota Timberwolves are one of the few teams in the NBA that have a clearly-defined franchise player that can also hold a legitimate claim to being at least a top-10 talent in the association. Anthony Edwards is all that and a bag of chips. We have seen his progression over the years, and now he is having his best career season as a three-point shooter.

Of course, Wolves fans would like to think that Edwards will remain in Minnesota for his entire professional career. And at the end of the day, it feels likely that he will. Ant loves the community and has spoken on taking pride in representing the franchise. But after the wild Luka Doncic trade, it feels like we cannot rule anything out in the crazy league for certain.

There is probably still not a high probability that Edwards ever plays anywhere but Minnesota. However, keeping our eyes and ears open to what he says about star players elsewhere could be useful for predicting future outcomes. This week at All-Star festivities in San Francisco, Ant had high praise for Stephon Castle after Saturday night's dunk contest.

"I enjoy watching Stephon Castle for sure," Edwards said. "He's from Atlanta, Georgia. So the roots, home roots, and I like the way he plays. I like the excitement he brings ... His potential is scary, depending on how his work ethic is, I think his potential is unlimited."

Edwards complimented Wembanyama and Stephon Castle

Now, could these simply be innocent, passing comments on another young player from Edwards' hometown? Possibly. But it is notable that Ant also had some nice things to say about Victor Wembanyama as well.

"(Wembanyama) did exactly everything he said he would do," Edwards said. "I love that. I’m a huge Wemby fan. He’s the new face of the NBA, so when he does something, you have no choice but to follow him.”

This comes after Ant was asked at All-Star media availability if he considers himself to be the face of the NBA, to which he responded that he does not. Instead, he said "that's what they've got Wemby for."

These are some strong statements from the Timberwolves' star. Edwards' appreciation for the San Antonio Spurs' two best players was on full display here, and it is clear that he views them highly. If there was any worry of Ant jumping ship to another Western Conference team, the Spurs would have to be at the top of the list.