Not Michael Jordan, But Shaquille O’Neal Proves Closest Match for Anthony Edwards

Isn’t Anthony Edwards supposed to be the second coming of Michael Jordan? The Minnesota Timberwolves star’s impressive game and skill set has always garnered him comparisons with the Chicago Bulls icon. Those comparisons have only increased this year with Ant-Man leading the Wolves to the top seed in the West. However, Edwards proved last night that he is so much more than those claims. The 22-year-old scored a season-high 44 points to lead the Wolves to a 113-111 victory over the Pacers. And his performance put him in an exclusive category alongside Shaquille O’Neal.

While Edwards also dished out 6 rebounds and 3 assists, it was his turnover number that helped him match O’Neal. Edwards finished with 0 on the night. Per a recent X post, “Players under 23 to record a game with at least 44 PTS | 0 TO— Anthony Edwards— Shaquille O’Neal That’s it.”

Edwards’ prowess seems to incline more towards the Lakers champ rather than the 6x champion. Well, that might have been a sweet surprise for the Los Angeles Lakers icon too. O’Neal is one of the many who praised the player. The Big Aristotle even touted him to be the next Michael Jordan.

Shaquille O’Neal has high hopes for Anthony Edwards

Making a bold prediction on Edwards’ career, O’Neal called him “The MJ of (our) generation.” O’Neal even agreed that he is one of the top 3 shooting guards. The 22-year-old has been good on both ends of the floor. Edwards has been phenomenal in leading the Timberwolves, it’s no wonder why Phoenix Suns legend Charles Barkley considers him MVP-worthy.

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Chuck agreed that if the Timberwolves could sustain their spot at the top, Edwards might even secure the MVP title. “Shai [Gilgeous-Alexander]’s in the conversation, so is [Nikola Jokic]. But I’m saying without Karl-Anthony Towns, for a month, if Minnesota can hold onto the No. 1 spot, he (Edwards) can be the MVP,” said Barkley.

Ant-Man is averaging 26.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 60 games this season. Furthermore, if he wins the MVP title, he will become the second 22-year-old player to achieve the accolade after Derrick Rose. While the player undoubtedly displays jaw-dropping talent and has genes similar to Michael Jordan, his prowess, reminiscent of O’Neal, cannot be denied either. What are your thoughts on Edwards’ game? Let us know in the comments section below.

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