Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards continues to decorate his early career resume with a gentleman sweep of the Los Angeles Lakers. With his prolific performances, swagger and strong personality, some are starting to deem him the young face of the league.
Stephen A. Smith is not among this group. He says Edwards needs to come out of the Western Conference to achieve this feat.
“It’s not Edwards’ league until he wins the West,” Smith said Thursday on First Take. “He doesn’t even necessarily have to win the championship, but you gotta win the West.”
Edwards boasts an impressive playoff history, eliminating Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant, LeBron James, and Nikola Jokic in the past two postseasons alone. Still, Smith thinks he needs a Finals appearance to be considered as the face of the league.
“The brother is box office,” Smith said. “The more you see him, the more you want to see him. But still in all, if you don’t have the championship, they’re not gonna give it to you. But if you come out of the West that includes LeBron and Steph, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jokic? And you’re the guy to come out? That would be different.”
Minnesota likely faces the Golden State Warriors next series, giving Edwards the chance to knock Jimmy Butler, Steph Curry, and Draymond Green out the postseason. The Timberwolves’ opening-round display solidified them as a dangerous team this postseason, preventing the title-contending Lakers from playing in the second round.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
With the star performances from Edwards, Julius Randle, and Jaden McDaniels, combined with contributions from Rudy Gobert, Naz Reid, and Donte DiVincenzo, the Timberwolves have a shot to advance to their first Finals in franchise history.
MORE MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES NEWS
Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards celebrates series win over Lakers in shocking fashion
Anthony Edwards sends LeBron James message after Timberwolves-Lakers Game 5