NBA Draft 2020: Why Anthony Edwards should still be the No. 1 pick
By Joe Casey
Offensive Ability
During his only year at Georgia, Edwards showcased his potency at the offensive end of the floor. Proving that he already has the tools to score at all three levels, giving him the ability to make an impact in the NBA immediately.
As an athlete, Edwards has shown his explosiveness and leaping ability at the rim having no problem going up and over defenders to convert on the offensive end. His frame allows him to not only handle physicality around the rim but welcome it.
Yet, even though he has no problem drawing contact and using his exceptional free throw shooting to his advantage, he has also shown he can convert acrobatic finishes around the basket. Making him a dual-threat within 15 feet.
Even with his ability to convert within 15ft, Edwards’s greatest strength on the offensive end of the floor is his ability to create space. Creating space is an essential skill at the NBA level and makes him a threat from all three levels. Being able to initiate offense for yourself is as important as being able to get your teammates involved.
Edwards shooting stroke and high release pose a challenge for a defender by being able to create a sliver of space gives him an added advantage in comparison to other top prospects with slow feet or minimal athleticism. By having the ability to become “instant offense” for any team at the next level he will also have no problem earning minutes to aid in his development.
This offensive ability combined with his physical gifts should continue to make him the consensus number one pick in the upcoming draft.