Minnesota Timberwolves forward Anthony Edwards was left off the All-Star Team, and he sees it as the latest evidence that he simply won’t receive national recognition.
Edwards is enjoying an excellent sophomore campaign in the NBA, averaging 22.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game. Despite this, he was not named among the Western Conference reserves, instead being relegated to the Rising Stars game. When asked about that, Edwards admitted he doesn’t expect to be picked anymore, and that even his inclusion in the Rising Stars competition surprised him.
Anthony Edwards when asked if not making the All Star team is a motivator:
"It's the same as the Rookie of the Year, man. I don't never expect to be selected, because it never happens. I was surprised I was selected for the Rising Stars game, if I'm being honest."
— Dane Moore (@DaneMooreNBA) February 5, 2022
Edwards was denied Rookie of the Year honors last season by Charlotte’s LaMelo Ball, and the Timberwolves standout made it clear that he wouldn’t forget that outcome. Saturday’s comments indicate he very much has not, and that he sees his All-Star omission the same way.
On the other hand, it’s hard to say who should have been left off the team to get Edwards in. It’s not as if the likes of Chris Paul, Devin Booker, or Edwards’ teammate Karl-Anthony Towns are undeserving. Plus, when arguably more deserving candidates like Dejounte Murray were left off the team, it’s even tougher to justify Edwards. The All-Star appearances will come for him, even if it hasn’t happened yet.
Photo: Mar 31, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Anthony Edwards (1) dribbles the ball at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
