Anthony Edwards entered the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend riding high with the Minnesota Timberwolves’ momentum. The 24-year-old star led the team, setting records during the event. He claimed the All-Star MVP award and boosted his team’s playoff push.
Edwards’ athleticism and scoring prowess now spark one big NBA question: Is he the league’s next face?
Stephen A. Smith and Carmelo Anthony Frame Anthony Edwards As the NBA’s Next Cornerstone
Stephen A. Smith commands attention like few others. His latest take on Edwards is lighting up social media. He crowned him the next Michael Jordan and the NBA’s future cornerstone. Smith made the bold claim after Ant-Man dominated All-Star Weekend and won the 2026 NBA All-Star Game MVP. Edwards’ elite scoring and clutch instincts prove no fluke.
Smith sees the Bulldogs product as a rare breed, with explosive athleticism and a killer instinct that echoes Jordan’s game in ways today’s league rarely produces.
“Wembanyama, the brother’s special. But that damn Ant-Man I mean, he is something to behold. He is Jordan-esque… Ant-Man is gonna be the face of the NBA,” said Stephen A. Smith, via First Take.
The NBA analyst also said Edwards isn’t just a scorer. He carries swagger, handles the ball with precision, and creates his own shot as well as anyone alive. That makes him a relatable superstar, unlike towering outliers such as Victor Wembanyama.
Earlier that same week, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony offered a complementary but contrasting take on the Wolves’ rising star. Melo praised Anthony Edwards’ fire and unpredictability, then gave us a pointed reminder: championship runs demand more than one alpha. Every great star needs a Robin.
“Ant need a Robin… I love what Julius brings… He needs a mtherf***r on any given night… Ant is the real deal.”
Melo’s message is simple: Edwards has superstar talent, but winning titles requires another consistent star beside him.
Smith’s Jordan comparison and Melo’s “Robin” comment say the same thing. Anthony Edwards isn’t just a franchise cornerstone. He’s a generational talent. His breakout season has outgrown the headlines, with MVP-level scoring and highlight-reel plays.