NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson recently addressed comments made by Minnesota Timberwolves' rising star Anthony Edwards regarding the skills of basketball legends. Edwards sparked heated discussions within the basketball community by stating that "Michael Jordan was the only one that really had skill."
The comments from the 23-year-old guard reached Johnson, who chose a prominent event in Los Angeles to offer his perspective. Johnson, a five-time NBA champion and one of the most celebrated point guards in the history of the sport, did not hold back. His storied career with the Lakers and an NCAA championship victory with Michigan State lend considerable weight to his opinions.
"I never respond to a guy that's never won a championship. He didn't win a college championship, I don't know if he even won a high school championship," Johnson remarked, reflecting on Edwards' relative inexperience compared to the legends he commented on.
Edwards has already made significant strides in his young career, including leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals and capturing a state championship during his standout high school career. Despite a brief college stint cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of the 2020 March Madness tournament, Edwards has shown considerable promise on the court. His recent achievement includes winning a gold medal with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, an accolade that underscores his growing influence in the sport.
Adding another layer to the controversy, NBA legend Isiah Thomas also shared his thoughts via social media. Thomas, a two-time NBA champion with the Detroit Pistons, cautioned, "Propaganda works, so be careful what you choose to believe."
Edwards didn't stop at his initial comments, further igniting the discussion by asserting, "Hell nah," when asked if Jordan could guard him. Despite this, he has repeatedly acknowledged Jordan's greatness, describing him as "the greatest to ever lace them up."
Magic Johnson's rebuttal, while pointed, comes from a place of deep respect for the game and the feats accomplished by its legends. His career, defined by numerous championships and countless memorable moments, stands as a testament to skill, perseverance, and the profound impact that players like him and Jordan have had on the sport.
As the Timberwolves gear up for the upcoming season, they will be buoyed by the return of most of their team. Edwards, despite his youth, has positioned himself as a central figure in the team's aspirations. His comments, whether viewed as controversial or confident, indicate a player unafraid to speak his mind and back it up on the court.
The reactions from Johnson and Thomas underline the enduring impact of past NBA greats and the ongoing dialogue between generations of players. As the season progresses, the basketball world will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Edwards, both for his performance on the court and his bold commentary off it.