Kendrick Perkins Questions Anthony Edwards’ Superstar Status

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Anthony Edwards struggled in the Minnesota Timberwolves‘ Game 4 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night. The young star scored only 16 points on 13 field goal attempts, contributing to a two-point defeat.

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins addressed the performance in a segment on ‘First Take.’ While he didn’t blame Edwards directly for the loss, he raised doubts about Edwards’ readiness to be the face of the NBA.

Perkins argued that being a role model off the court is crucial for a player who aspires to lead the league. “You gotta check the boxes when you’re the face of the league,” he said. “Yes, we know you gotta have your signature shoe, be in commercials, and have the highlights. But you know what else you gotta have? You gotta be a role model. And things outside the lines matter.”

He continued, emphasizing the common trait he sees among the game’s all-time greats, saying, “Look at Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Shaq, LeBron, Steph. What did they all have in common? They were all family men, married with kids while they were playing.”

However, Perkins’ interpretation of history has faced criticism. Notably, Larry Bird was divorced when drafted in 1978 and got married again in 1989. Magic Johnson did not marry until 1991, after retiring for the first time, and Shaquille O’Neal married in 2002, after winning multiple championships.

Despite Perkins’ assertions, some of his statements regarding these basketball legends may not hold up under scrutiny. Fans and analysts alike are encouraged to verify the timelines of these players’ personal lives for additional context.

The Timberwolves and their fans will hope for a stronger performance from Edwards in the remaining games to solidify his place as a future star in the league.