2020 NBA Draft Profile: Anthony Edwards, G, Georgia : TechnologyLast

OVERVIEW

Edwards was projected as a top-5 prospect entering the college basketball season, and that has not changed following his short stint at Georgia.

Edwards averaged 19.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game as the undisputed defensive focal point for opposing teams.

At 6-feet-5 and 225 pounds, Edwards already has an NBA body. He uses a blend of strength and athleticism to drive and finish at the rim through contact. He is also a streaky shot-maker off the dribble and at all three levels of the court.

Edwards’ combination of physical frame and creativity to create his own shot makes him a potentially potent NBA shooting guard.

ANALYSIS

Though Edwards has drawn comparisons to Bradley Beal and Victor Oladipo, he is not projected as a guaranteed superstar. But he also might be the surest prospect in an unpredictable draft. He is expected to be, at least, a solid role player capable of scoring in bunches.

There are questions about Edwards’ effort level (particularly on defense), focus and decision-making. It’s also fair to wonder if Edwards has the “winner” intangible, after Georgia went 16-16 and 5-13 in conference play before the season ended due to the coronavirus pandemic. During a live ESPN interview just before the draft lottery, Edwards said the biggest thing he learned during his college season was how to handle failure.

Edwards also needs to improve his passing and shot selection. Perhaps that will come with more structure on an NBA roster, where he is not the bona fide star free to let it rip.

Edwards appears to be the best positional fit for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who hold the No. 1 overall pick and already have big man Karl-Anthony Towns and point guard D’Angelo Russell on the roster.

PROJECTION

Top 5 overall

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