​Anthony Edwards just wrapped a career year in which he averaged 28.8 points, five rebounds, and 3.7 assists across 61 games. He shot 48% from the floor and 39% from three, attempting 8.4 triples per game. Edwards earned his fourth All-Star selection, took home All-Star MVP honors, and finished third in Clutch Player of the Year voting. His late-season injuries prevented him from earning a spot on the All-NBA team, a nod many believed he would have earned as a member of the second team if fully healthy.
In the playoffs, Edwards contributed 21.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, while shooting 42% from the field and 31% from beyond the arc. He battled a knee injury in the second round against the San Antonio Spurs after helping the Timberwolves upset the Denver Nuggets in the first round. Notably, Edwards won’t turn 25 until the first week of August, yet he has already established himself as one of the league’s premier talents, showcasing elite athleticism that places him in the top tier of the sport.
The Ringer released its updated Top 100 players, ranking Edwards sixth overall. He sits behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder (the reigning MVP), Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs (a two-way phenom), Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets (three-time MVP), Luka Dončić of the Los Angeles Lakers (a prolific offensive force), and Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks (the Finals MVP from last season). Edwards also sits ahead of Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks and Heat era, who missed most of the season before his offseason trade to Miami, and Kawhi Leonard, who played 65 games and posted career-high scoring numbers.
There is a solid argument that Edwards belongs in the sixth spot given his performances and impact, especially when weighed against the seasons and playoff runs of the players ahead of him. While Edwards outplayed Jokic in the postseason and Luka was limited by injury during the Lakers’ playoff run, the regular-season numbers often carry more weight in these rankings. Some may contendGiannis should be ranked above Edwards, but his limited appearances this past season provide a drawback in his own right. With Edwards’ durability concerns in mind, there is room for debate about whether he should be ranked higher, but a sixth-place placement remains a reasonable benchmark.
Overall, Edwards’ blend of scoring, shot-making, and athleticism has cemented him as one of the league’s most dynamic young stars. As he approaches his mid-20s, teams will be watching closely to see how his game evolves and whether he can translate regular-season dominance into sustained playoff success. His trajectory suggests continued growth and a continued impact as one of the league’s most electrifying players for years to come. This latest ranking reflects both his achievements to date and the potential that many executives and analysts believe he still has yet to unlock.