Anthony Edwards’ Evolving Shot Selection: A Deep Dive
One of the most intriguing developments of the season to date has been Anthony Edwards’ evolving shot selection. He’s shooting nearly four more 3-pointers per game than he did last year, and has a percentage that is almost six percentage points better than his next-best long-range shooting campaign.
But what about his volume of shots at the rim and in the mid-range? How else might Edwards tweak his shot mix to turn in an even more efficient offensive season?
Anthony Edwards’ Three-Point Surge
Anthony Edwards has dramatically increased his 3-point attempts this season, shooting nearly four more threes per game compared to last year. This leap has positioned him as a league leader in 3-point makes, slightly ahead of Old Friend Malik Beasley and Miami’s Tyler Herro. Edwards’ 3-point shooting percentage has soared to an impressive 42.7%, a substantial improvement from his previous career high of just under 37%.
However, the increase has come at the expense of shots at the rim. Last season, Edwards attempted 31% of his shots at the rim, but this year, that number has dropped to 23%. Importantly, his mid-range attempts have also decreased.
Balancing the Shot Profile
While Edwards’ proficiency from beyond the arc is commendable, there’s a case to be made for a more balanced shot profile. The less-efficient mid-range jumper should be reserved for specific situations, such as late in the shot clock or in crunch time. Edwards has the potential to elevate his game further by increasing his attempts at the rim, which would not only boost his scoring efficiency but also increase his free throw opportunities.
Currently, Edwards’ free throw rate has declined, with only 10.6% of his shots resulting in free throw attempts, compared to 14% last year. This drop is largely due to his increased reliance on three-point shots and fewer attempts at the rim. By redistributing some of his mid-range attempts to drives to the basket, Edwards could enhance his scoring efficiency and free throw rate, pushing him closer to the elite status of a top-three player in the league.
The Timberwolves’ overall shot selection also plays a role in this dynamic. The team has seen a decrease in shots at the rim, impacting their offensive efficiency. By encouraging more rim attacks, not only from Edwards but from the team as a whole, the Timberwolves can improve their scoring and free throw rates, creating a more balanced and potent offense.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Anthony Edwards’ shot selection and its impact on the Timberwolves, tune into the Locked On Wolves podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Wolves Podcast:
- The impact of big man pairings on the Timberwolves’ performance
- Analysis of the Timberwolves’ team shot profile compared to last season
- Upcoming matchups and what to expect from the Timberwolves
- Insights into the Timberwolves’ free throw rate and its implications
