Anthony Edwards had one of his best offensive seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2025-26. He averaged 28.8 points per game and shot 48.9 percent from the field. These numbers marked career highs for the young guard. He also earned All-Star Game MVP honors during the season.
Despite the strong play, Edwards appeared in only 61 games. The NBA requires players to appear in at least 65 games to qualify for major awards like All-NBA and MVP, unless they receive special approval. Edwards appealed the decision, but an independent arbitrator turned it down.
The missed games had bigger effects. Without All-NBA recognition, Edwards did not qualify for a supermax contract extension this offseason. The 65 game rule has changed how teams and players manage rest and injuries. Edwards became one of the main examples of how the policy works in practice.
The Timberwolves have made changes to help Edwards stay on the court more. They added LaMelo Ball to the backcourt. Ball is a strong playmaker who can create shots and handle the ball. This move could reduce the physical load on Edwards during the long regular season. The team also adjusted its roster to build around Edwards strengths instead of asking him to do everything.
Edwards has shown steady improvement each year. He is one of the top scorers in the league and continues to develop his game. For him to reach the next level, staying healthy for a full 82-game schedule will matter. Helping the Timberwolves advance deeper in the playoffs is another key step. Team success often decides discussions about the league’s best players.
Edwards enters his seventh NBA season with high expectations. His talent is clear, but availability and results in the spring will shape how people see his career moving forward.