Anthony Edwards’ Reign: How the NBA’s Shooting Guard Landscape is Shifting
The coronation is complete. It’s no longer a debate; it’s a declaration. While Anthony Edwards was gaining traction as the league’s premier shooting guard just last year, the 2025-26 NBA GM poll delivered a landslide: 70% of general managers now believe Edwards holds the title, a staggering leap from his 33% share in the previous season. This isn’t just about individual brilliance; it signals a fundamental shift in the NBA’s power dynamics and a potential blueprint for future success, built on the foundation of elite three-point shooting.
The Edwards Effect: Beyond the Numbers
The statistics are undeniably impressive. Edwards led the NBA with 320 three-pointers made in 79 games, attempting a league-high 811 with a remarkable 39.5% conversion rate. But reducing his ascent to mere numbers overlooks the way he’s impacting the game. At just 23 years old, he became the youngest player to surpass 300 three-pointers in a season, showcasing a maturity and efficiency rarely seen at his age. This isn’t simply about volume; it’s about becoming a consistently reliable threat from beyond the arc, forcing defenses to adjust and opening up opportunities for his teammates.
This transformation is particularly noteworthy considering the Minnesota Timberwolves’ strategic pivot. Moving on from Karl-Anthony Towns, a previous three-point record holder for the franchise, signaled a commitment to a different style of play – one prioritizing perimeter shooting and defensive versatility. Edwards has not only filled the void but has redefined the team’s offensive identity.
The Rise of the Perimeter: A League-Wide Trend
Edwards’ dominance isn’t occurring in a vacuum. The NBA is increasingly prioritizing three-point shooting. Teams are actively seeking players who can consistently knock down shots from distance, recognizing its impact on spacing, offensive flow, and overall efficiency. The Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, and Houston Rockets – the teams predicted to finish ahead of the Timberwolves in the Western Conference – all boast potent perimeter attacks. This isn’t a coincidence.
Consider the evolution of the game. Historically, dominant players often operated in the post. While interior scoring remains important, the ability to stretch the floor with reliable three-point shooting has become a non-negotiable skill for elite players. This trend is driven by analytics, which consistently demonstrate the value of three-pointers compared to other shot types. As teams become more data-driven, the emphasis on perimeter shooting will only intensify.
Donovan Mitchell and the Shifting Guard Hierarchy
While Edwards’ lead is substantial, the GM poll reveals interesting insights into the evolving guard hierarchy. Donovan Mitchell’s 13% share of the vote demonstrates his continued impact, while Luka Dončić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander each receiving 7% highlights the depth of talent at the position. However, the significant gap between Edwards and the rest of the field suggests a clear separation in perceived value.
This isn’t to diminish the accomplishments of Mitchell, Dončić, or Gilgeous-Alexander. Each player possesses unique strengths and contributes significantly to their respective teams. However, Edwards’ combination of scoring prowess, three-point accuracy, and defensive potential appears to resonate most strongly with NBA executives.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Shooting Guard
The NBA’s future likely belongs to players who can seamlessly blend scoring, playmaking, and elite three-point shooting. The archetype of the traditional shooting guard – a primarily isolation-based scorer – is fading. Instead, we’re seeing the emergence of versatile players who can thrive in a variety of offensive systems. **Anthony Edwards** embodies this evolution, and his continued success will undoubtedly influence the development of future generations of players.
The Timberwolves’ projected fourth-place finish in the Western Conference is a testament to their overall improvement, but Edwards’ individual growth is the driving force. As he continues to refine his game and lead his team, expect his dominance at the shooting guard position to become even more pronounced. The league has spoken: the era of Anthony Edwards is officially underway.
What impact will Edwards’ continued success have on player development programs across the NBA? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
