Anthony Edwards Says Teams Are Guarding Him Differently Now

Anthony Edwards is one of the most dangerous forces in the NBA. Edwards is a killer on defense, being one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. He is also one of the top offensive producers in the game. 

This season, Edwards is averaging career highs in points (29.5 per game) and 3-point percentage at 39.8%. Because of Edwards’ improved 3-point shooting, he now has to be guarded everywhere on the court. And, because he is so good offensively, teams are daring him to make the right pass by double-teaming him now more than ever before. 

Edwards talked about the new defensive schemes that are being used to try to stop him. 

“It might’ve been last year when I would be like ‘man they double teaming me. I don’t like it.’ At this point it’s a sign of respect. They wasn’t just double teaming, they was hitting me from half court. I’m dribbling up finna run a play and they sent two so I’m not mad at all. At the end of the day, my 4, is better than they 3. We playing 4 on 3…. I still had what I needed to get. I got enough to win the game so I’m not mad at all”

As a star offensive player, being able to punish teams for double-teaming you is essential. Sometimes it takes learning the skill of passing or dribbling out of a double-team. Sometimes it just means you need to trust your teammates more. 

Edwards is already getting better at dealing with these types of defenses. However, as he improves, he will become even more dangerous to gameplan against.