Draymond Green calls out Anthony Edwards' lack of enthusiasm at All-Star weekend
Anthony Edwards is one of the best young players in the NBA. He made his second straight All-Star appearance on Feb. 18. Edwards looked to be enjoying himself while not taking the game too seriously.
In a recent episode of "The Draymond Green Show" podcast, the veteran forward questioned Edwards' thought process.
"A big deal on guy's resumes is All-Star Game MVP," Green said. "I don't understand why a young Anthony Edwards wouldn't want his name sketched in stone next to the likes of those guys. So, to play defense backward, to shoot left-handed threes, I thought that was a little outlandish. I thought it was a little crazy. And like I said, a little disheartening. Just because of who he is. Who we all think he's going to be to this league. A part of being the face of the NBA is being the steward of the game ... Somebody needs to be teaching him."
Having spent his career alongside Stephen Curry, Green has seen the expectations placed on the superstar's shoulders. He clearly believes that Edwards can reach that level. As such, his comments are likely meant to guide one of the brightest young talents in the league.
However, Green's reputation for being outspoken and combative may mean he's not the best player to be disseminating the message. Especially when the message is being sent via a public platform.
Still, Green is right. As Edwards' profile as a genuine star continues to rise, he will find himself in the public eye. How he carries himself on the court, even during All-Star games, will matter. He will be setting an example for the next generation of NBA stars.
Still, Edwards isn't the only player to not take the All-Star Game seriously. A big contention point for NBA fans is the lack of effort the league's best players put forth.
Until the league re-incentivizes a competitive All-Star Game, younger players are going to follow the established star's lead. That's what Edwards did. Whether things can change in the future is up for debate.
Still, everybody needs to be held accountable, not just the young star trying to fit in with his peers. That's an unfair expectation to put on Edwards' shoulders, regardless of his talent and potential.
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