"Wouldn't Draft You": Kerr's Honest Assessment Of Edwards Before Timberwolves Star's Rise

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Post on May 07, 2025

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Wouldn't Draft You: Kerr's Honest Assessment of Edwards Before Timberwolves Star's Rise

Anthony Edwards' meteoric rise to NBA stardom has captivated fans worldwide. But before the electrifying dunks and clutch performances, before the "Ant-Man" moniker became synonymous with electrifying Timberwolves basketball, there was a brutally honest assessment from a legendary coach: Steve Kerr. Kerr, in a recent interview, revealed he wouldn't have drafted Edwards, a revelation that sheds light on the complexities of NBA scouting and the remarkable growth of the young star.

This isn't a condemnation of Edwards' talent; rather, it highlights the inherent risks and uncertainties involved in evaluating young players entering the league. Kerr's comments underscore the crucial differences between potential and polished skill, a distinction that often separates promising prospects from bona fide superstars.

The Pre-Draft Narrative: A Tale of Two Assessments

The 2020 NBA Draft was brimming with potential. While LaMelo Ball and James Wiseman garnered significant attention, Edwards possessed a raw athleticism and scoring ability that captivated many. However, concerns lingered about his consistency and decision-making. Kerr, known for his sharp eye for talent and his emphasis on team play, apparently saw these flaws as significant enough to pass on Edwards.

This isn't uncommon. Many NBA GMs and coaches prioritize players with refined skills and a high basketball IQ. Edwards, at the time, lacked the polished all-around game that some preferred. His raw talent was undeniable, but his development curve remained a question mark.

Edwards' Transformation: From Raw Talent to NBA Star

The remarkable turnaround speaks volumes about Edwards’ dedication and the Timberwolves' player development program. Since his arrival in Minnesota, Edwards has displayed an impressive commitment to improving all facets of his game. He's worked diligently on:

• Improving his shooting efficiency: While always possessing a potent scoring instinct, Edwards has significantly improved his accuracy from beyond the arc and overall shot selection.
• Refining his decision-making: Early in his career, Edwards was known for some questionable choices with the ball. He's demonstrably improved his court awareness and playmaking abilities.
• Developing his leadership skills: Edwards has evolved into a vocal leader on the court, inspiring his teammates and demonstrating a newfound maturity.

These improvements are not just anecdotal; they're reflected in his steadily rising statistics and his increasingly significant contributions to the Timberwolves' success.

Kerr's Admission: A Testament to Edwards' Growth

Kerr's admission, far from being a criticism, serves as a testament to Edwards' remarkable development. It underscores the fact that NBA scouting is far from an exact science. Potential is just one piece of the puzzle. Hard work, dedication, and a supportive environment are equally, if not more, crucial in shaping a player's career trajectory. Edwards' story is a powerful example of a player surpassing initial assessments and exceeding even the highest expectations.

The Future is Bright: Ant-Man's Continued Ascent

The Timberwolves' investment in Edwards is clearly paying dividends. His rise from a player some scouts wouldn't have drafted to a cornerstone of a playoff contender is a compelling narrative. With his athleticism, scoring prowess, and his newly refined skillset, Edwards is poised for continued success, making Kerr’s initial assessment a fascinating case study in the ever-evolving landscape of NBA talent evaluation. The future is undeniably bright for "Ant-Man," and his journey serves as inspiration for aspiring young players everywhere.