A three-time NBA All-Star now, Anthony Edwards is the rising star of the NBA. Keeping aside his recent controversies around the fines and public declaration of discontent over the officials of the league, Ant is the star of the next generation. But, is he worthy of becoming the face of the NBA? Is he ready to replace the likes of LeBron James, Stephen Curry, or even his idol Kevin Durant? Well, someone has to be the flagbearer after these legends, right?

For ESPN’s Ramona Shelbourne and Brian Windhorst, Anthony Edwards has the potential to become the one Adam Silver could rely on. However, missing the All-Star Weekend due to a groin injury felt like an opportunity missed. Meanwhile, Antman’s take on his fellow Kenny’s Young Stars teammate Victor Wembanyama has put the experts in shock.

Shelbourne recalls a particular quote from Edwards during the All-Star Weekend in San Francisco. Speaking to Windy on The Hoop Collective podcast she said, that Ant was asked: “Are you the face of the league? Can you see yourself with that? And then he said, ‘No, they got Victor Wembanyama for that.’ I’m paraphrasing, but that’s essentially what he said.” Is this a new version of Anthony Edwards? ESPN’s veteran reporter was shocked at the change in the 23-year-old’s words.

At the same time, Ramona Shelbourne also believes, the Wolves guard has it in him to become the next face of the league. “I thought that was a really interesting quote from Anthony Edwards. Because by the way, Anthony Edwards definitely wants to be the face of the league. And can be. He’s right up there. He hasn’t done anything wrong. Yes, the Timberwolves are a little disappointing this year,” she expressed.

The ongoing NBA season was painful for the Wolves initially, however, thanks to Ant and his team’s efforts they’ve moved up to the 7th place in the West. With a record of 31-25, Minnesota is keeping up its heat in the league. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards is averaging 27.5 ppg, with a 44.0 FG%. But, his sudden letting go of such an important position, that is, the ‘face’ of the league, seems odd. Shelbourne further notes: “I’ve never known Ant to back away from something and say ‘I don’t want that.”

However, for America’s highly revered columnist Jason Whitlock, Anthony Edwards seems like he wants to be irresponsible. At this young age of 23, it might feel alright, but given the fact that he’s up to hold the reins after Bron, Curry, and KD, taking responsibility will become important. Thus Whitlock slams Ant with a tough reality.

Anthony Edwards’ major issues exposed that could put him in trouble

Antman and his controversies have been going hand in hand. From receiving fines this season for profanity, to doubtful eyes outside the court. Anthony Edwards has seen it all. The world knows his stories about the ‘baby mamas’ and the back-and-forth legal actions. He had even filed a petition against Lil Baby’s ex-girlfriend Ayesha Howard. He demanded child support and paternity. Thus Jason Whitlock, summarizing all these issues all at once had a lot to say.

On his YouTube channel, the veteran sports columnist slammed Edwards. He said: “Anthony Edwards, yes, he wants to be an irresponsible person. He wants baby mamas, he probably wants to just smoke w–d and be left alone. And be able to knock up whatever stripper he wants.” Now, that’s something extremely grave to say. Whitlock added: “I’ve been in that mentality of ‘Hey if I just avoid responsibility and just do me I’ll be better off.’ You’re actually making yourself a worse person.”

Despite the allegations and troubles, the columnist had a piece of advice for Anthony Edwards: “For me, it’s just like taking on the responsibility of doing this fearless project the way that I’ve done. It’s made me a better person.” Simply put, he wants Antman to become more responsible as a person. And that goes beyond the league. Ultimately, it’s these young talents like him who are going to become the future of the NBA.

Thus amidst the alleged public lie of submitting to Wemby’s ‘greatness’ as the upcoming face of the league, Anthony Edwards met with a massive reality check. Now, as the NBA rolls deeper, moving towards the playoffs, it’ll all come down to Ant’s strength on the court. Can he push the Wolves beyond or succumb to his internal and external troubles? We’ll find out soon.