Anthony Edwards has been an offensive beast since he came into the league as the No. 1 overall pick last season. The shooting guard averaged 19.3 points per game for the Timberwolves in his rookie year and has pumped that number up to 22.3 points a game this season. However, he’s sometimes caught lacking when it comes to defense, something that has caused him issues at times this season.
Edwards’ coach at Minnesota, Chris Finch, has gone as far as to say that he benches Edwards at times during games for his lack of apparent defensive effort. Edwards has all the tools to be excellent on defense, being freakishly athletic, but it seems he just doesn’t get involved enough on that side of the ball.
Now, normally, a young star who is already elite in the NBA might not take too kindly to being pulled from games. However, despite being just 20 years old, Edwards has shown great maturity in his response to the situation. The Wolves star’s reaction to his coach’s decision was shared by beat reporter Chris Hine on Twitter.
Asked Edwards if he can appreciate the coaching even in heated moments.
"For sure. That’s why I said he right. I get mad, but he right. At the end of the day I can’t do nothing but take the constructive criticism and come back and show him that I can do it."
— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) January 4, 2022
“I get mad for sure. I be wanting to say something to him. But it’s pointless. He right. Can’t do nothing but be better when I get back in.”
Asked about whether he is still receptive to coaching when he is feeling angry, Edwards elaborated.
That’s why I said he right. I get mad, but he right. At the end of the day I can’t do nothing but take the constructive criticism and come back and show him that I can do it.”
Ant’s scoring is so impactful, it wouldn’t be surprising if he just ignored the defensive end, but his humility in accepting criticism and working towards being better is a hugely positive sign for his career and the Timberwolves franchise. If he can become serviceable on D, the Wolves will be able to make a concerted push towards the top of the Western Conference.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5oJrzUObXY
