Edwards learning from Jordan: chasing MVP and NBA title
Anthony Edwards is relying on Michael Jordan’s advice to take the Timberwolves to the next level and aim for an NBA championship
Just a few months after the Minnesota Timberwolves were eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Conference Finals, Anthony Edwards decided to turn to a legend to improve his game: Michael Jordan.
Through a mutual connection, the Timberwolves star had the chance to receive valuable tips from the six-time NBA champion. Edwards revealed that Jordan mainly helped him better read offensive spacing, find the right timing for his shots, and become more effective with his post moves.
One detail that really struck him was about playing with his back to the basket:
I think the best advice he gave me is that most players in the post use their butt to push, while he uses his upper back
Anthony Edwards
The young All-Star knows that his personal growth is key to pushing the Timberwolves further in the playoffs. Last spring, against the Thunder, he struggled from beyond the arc (11/39 over five games), and now his goal is to become more impactful in clutch moments, attacking the rim more often.
But it’s not just about individual performance. Edwards emphasized how much the team’s chemistry has improved compared to last year. Many players stayed in Minneapolis over the summer, working together to build a stronger bond.
Individual workouts with Julius Randle and daily sessions with teammates helped the group find better balance and consistency.
I think winning starts with being together, and it starts in the summer. We need to stay united. We need to be a team. We can’t wait until the All-Star break to try – we have to do it now
Anthony Edwards
During media day, Coach Chris Finch praised his leader, convinced that Edwards has developed a new obsession with details: watching film, taking care of his body, improving his decision-making with the ball in his hands. According to the coach, these aspects could put him right in the MVP race.
He has the DNA to become one. He just has to fully embrace the challenge
Chris Finch
Edwards makes no secret of his ambitions: he knows that to be in the MVP conversation he’ll need to win big and score even more, but he insists that the main goal remains elevating the team in an ever-tougher Western Conference:
I don’t think it’s just about the Thunder. I believe a lot of teams got stronger this summer. I think the Nuggets are going to be really tough. If you give Nikola Jokic a couple of shooters, it’s going to be extremely hard to beat them. So we need to focus on more than just one team
Anthony Edwards
For now, his relationship with Jordan remains informal, but Edwards is convinced it will grow over time. Having such a mentor in a season where everything is on the line could make all the difference.