Anthony Edwards is one of the NBA’s brightest young stars, not to mention one of the game’s most confident players. He will make his second appearance in the NBA All-Star Game on Sunday, and perhaps he is headed toward winning the midseason classic’s MVP award someday soon.
The 6-foot-4 guard has been gradually elevating his game over the last few years, and so far this season, he’s averaging 26.3 points, 5.3 assists and 5.2 rebounds a game for the first-place Timberwolves. Elevating one’s game means consistently challenging one’s self, and Edwards is claiming he will undertake a huge and unique challenge at this year’s All-Star game.
He said he will shoot only with his left hand during the entire contest.
In fact, during Saturday’s skills challenge, he gave everyone a preview of what he said he would do on Sunday, although the results weren’t there.
Since this year’s All-Star weekend is taking place in Indianapolis, Edwards’ challenge seems appropriate and perhaps even a tribute to a legend. During the 1985-86 season, Larry Bird, the greatest and most famous basketball player to come out of the Hoosier State, shot left-handed during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
His Boston Celtics won that game in overtime, 120-119, as Bird achieved a triple-double with 47 points, 14 rebounds and 11 assists. He even hit 21-of-34 shots from the field and all three of his 3-point attempts despite his self-imposed handicap.
In the seven games he has played so far in February, Edwards has averaged 30.9 points a game while shooting 50.7 percent from the floor.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
Given his excellent play this season and his gigantic belief in himself, don’t be surprised if, at some point on Sunday, he goes after the All-Star game MVP. He may not be high on the list of favorites to win the award, but if he gets going, it wouldn’t surprise anyone if he brings it home.
