The Crucible of Playoff Basketball

Anthony Edwards’ 2024-25 season showcased brilliance—highlighted by a career-high 53-point performance against the Detroit Pistons and a dominant 34-point, seven-assist outing against the Portland Trail Blazers. Yet, his playoff struggles, particularly a 28.2% three-point shooting clip in the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, revealed critical vulnerabilities. Paul George, a veteran forward with the Philadelphia 76ers, addressed these gaps on his podcast Podcast P with Paul George, urging Edwards to develop a mid-post game to elevate his play under pressure.

George’s Tactical Prescription

George emphasized refining Edwards’ post-up skills to reduce reliance on contested perimeter shots. “Get to one dribble and raise up,” he advised. “Play from the elbow, where you can see the whole floor.” This approach would allow Edwards to exploit mismatches with his 6’8” frame, forcing defenders into unfavorable rotations and diversifying Minnesota’s offense, currently ranked 18th in efficiency.

A Mentor’s Perspective

George’s advice carries weight, drawn from his own evolution as a two-way star. Despite inconsistent play in his first season with the 76ers (16.2 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.3 APG), his leadership in Philadelphia—easing late-game pressure on stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey—demonstrates a strategic mindset. Edwards, averaging 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists in the playoffs, already mirrors Dwyane Wade’s explosive drives and defensive tenacity. Yet George’s blueprint targets a gap: mastering mid-range pull-ups and post moves to counterover-helping defenses.

The Rivalry and Broader Implications

Edwards’ growth parallels broader NBA trends, where star-driven teams like the Timberwolves and 76ers clash strategically. Minnesota’s fifth-ranked defense contrasts with Philadelphia’s offensive prowess, creating tactical chess matches when they meet. By refining his post-game, Edwards could become a threat akin to Luka Dončić or Nikola Jokić—versatile forces who dominate with IQ and positioning.

The Road Ahead

Edwards’ willingness to adapt is evident, despite his controversial personality. The Timberwolves must support his development with complementary players like Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert. As the league evolves toward positionless basketball, mastering the post could be the final step toward Edwards’ MVP potential. George’s mentorship offers a roadmap—but execution hinges on Edwards’ dedication. Success here could transform Minnesota’s championship hopes from “if” to “when.”

Keywords: Anthony Edwards, Paul George, Minnesota Timberwolves