Anthony Edwards Sparks Controversy With Jump Claims

The Minnesota Timberwolves have had their share of ups and downs this season, but one figure has consistently shone bright amid the challenges: 23-year-old Anthony Edwards. While he may not be leading the pack as the top team in the Western Conference, his prowess on the court has made the Timberwolves highly competitive.

Edwards’ confidence, at times nearly bordering on bravado, took center stage recently when he claimed, "no one in the history of the NBA jumps like I do." This bold assertion caught the attention of NBA legend Magic Johnson, who didn’t hold back when responding. Magic, speaking on Byron Scott’s Fast Break podcast, stated, "Don’t attack all the old-school guys when you haven’t done your homework. First of all—Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Dr. J. Clyde Drexler, David Thompson, even before all of them! They could all fly. So slow down, bro. Slow down.”

More than just critiquing Edwards' comments about jumping skills, Johnson delivered what he labeled a reality check. "Look, man, talk to me when you’ve won something. You show respect. That’s all—just show respect. I don’t go at nobody. That’s not who I am. But if you attack us, like, ‘Oh, the game wasn’t exciting back then,’ then I gotta come back at you,” he explained.

Despite the controversy swirling around him, there’s no denying Edwards is carving out his legacy on the court this season. Edwards has established himself as the Timberwolves' cornerstone player, currently averaging 27.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.6 assists over the course of the season, which has spanned 58 games. His performance has not only established him as one of the league's standout players but also earned him a spot as a starter for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, representing the Western Conference.

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves as a whole have captured attention after winning eight straight games, igniting discussions about their playoff potential. Head coach Chris Finch has played a significant role in driving the team's success. Edwards praised Finch, stating, "That’s the best relationship I’ve ever had with a coach throughout my basketball career. He lets his players play. He coaches everybody. That’s the best thing about him. He’s gonna coach everybody hard. And critique everybody. And when you got it going and you’re playing well, he’ll let you know. So he’s doing it the right way.”

The backdrop of Edwards’ comments highlights the generational divide within the NBA's fanbase. While young players like Edwards inject fresh energy and excitement, sentiments from past greats like Johnson serve as a reminder of the league's rich history. Johnson also acknowledged Edwards' exciting playstyle, noting among the current star players, "Anthony Edwards is the most exciting player to watch in the NBA... If you look at him and you look at Ja Morant, they’re probably the two. And then, of course, Kyrie. Those three can just put on a show."

Magic Johnson's responses to Edwards’ remarks aren't isolated events; they reflect the broader concern of respect within the sport. Back during another controversial moment, Edwards suggested players from previous decades lacked the same skills found today, which prompted Johnson to engage again. The Lakers icon formerly quipped on Jimmy Kimmel Live, “Thanks a lot, Anthony,” before reciting names of legends, emphasizing the skill and impact they had on the game.

Johnson encouraged Edwards to focus not on past players, but on the present competition. "If I’m Anthony Edwards, I’m concerned about the Dallas Mavericks, about OKC, about Boston, about all these great teams. … Concentrate, because you got beat by the Mavericks. You didn’t make it to the championship.”

This back-and-forth exemplifies not just the competitive nature of the NBA, but the respect players must have for those who paved the way for today's athletes. Edwards’ confidence, when balanced with humility and respect for past legends, could surely solidify his legacy. For now, the Timberwolves continue to ride high on the momentum brought by both Edwards’ exceptional performances and Finch’s coaching.

With the playoffs approaching, all eyes will be on whether the Timberwolves can maintain their winning streak and make their mark this season. And as for Anthony Edwards, will he channel Johnson's advice and focus on winning rather than making bold claims? Only time will tell.