Michael Jordan’s Shocking Prophecy About Anthony Edwards: Is the Next MJ Finally Here? “If He’s Not the GOAT, Then Who Is?”

When Michael Jordan speaks, the basketball world listens.

So when MJ called Anthony Edwards a “more athletic, bigger version of me” back in 2020, the statement sent ripples through the NBA community.

Four years later, that prophecy is no longer just hype—it’s becoming a reality that has everyone curious and intrigued.

Anthony Edwards, the explosive guard drafted third overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves, entered the league amid skepticism.

Some thought he lacked the drive, others questioned his readiness.

But ESPN Insider Tim McMahon recently revealed on the Hoop Collective podcast that an NBA scout believes Edwards isn’t just a star—he’s a superstar on track to be the next Michael Jordan.

That’s a heavy comparison.

The “next MJ” label has been thrown around before, often reserved for legends like LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Dwyane Wade—players who, despite their greatness, fell just short of the GOAT crown.

So why is Edwards suddenly being spoken of in the same breath?

For one, the praise isn’t new.

Patrick Beverley, who played alongside Edwards, once told him bluntly, “You got a chance, brother, to be Michael Jordan.”

Beverly’s words carry weight given his own reputation as a tenacious defender and competitor.

And it wasn’t just teammates who noticed.

Even MJ himself reached out with advice: “Use your butt more, create more space, and you’re going to be on guard.”

That mentorship from the GOAT was a clear sign MJ saw something special in Edwards.

Four years on, Edwards has evolved into a dominant two-way player, a rarity among young stars.

In the 2023 season, he helped lead the Timberwolves to an impressive start, beating powerhouse teams like the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics.

More impressively, Edwards showed no fear guarding elite players like Jayson Tatum, matching toughness and intensity in crucial moments.

One NBA analyst described Edwards’ defense as “old school basketball,” highlighting his willingness to fight for loose balls and not back down.

In a recent overtime battle, Edwards’ defensive grit against Tatum was a defining moment, proving he’s not just about flashy offense but also the hard-nosed side of the game.

Statistically, Edwards is putting up career-best numbers—averaging 26.5 points and 5 assists per game—and is arguably the best defensive wing among MVP candidates.

His ability to balance scoring with lockdown defense has transformed the Timberwolves, allowing star big man Karl-Anthony Towns to focus more on scoring while Edwards handles the perimeter defense.

This growth has even softened the blow from the Rudy Gobert trade, once seen as a franchise-altering disaster.

Thanks to Edwards’ leadership and two-way excellence, the Timberwolves are no longer a laughingstock but a legitimate contender.

Still, the MJ comparison requires more than individual brilliance.

Michael Jordan’s true greatness was defined by his ability to will his team through multiple playoff rounds to NBA championships.

Edwards hasn’t yet crossed that threshold.

He missed the playoffs as a rookie, which is understandable for a 19-year-old on a rebuilding team.

But by his second season, Edwards was already dragging Minnesota into the postseason—a feat that had eluded the franchise for years.

Comparing early career playoff success, Jordan made the playoffs in each of his first three seasons, but with a caveat—the NBA had fewer teams back then, and more teams made the playoffs.

Jordan’s Bulls didn’t finish above .500 until his fourth season, the same year they won their first championship.

Edwards is now at that critical fourth-year mark.

If he can start willing the Timberwolves deeper into the playoffs, the Jordan comp will gain serious traction.

What truly separates Michael Jordan wasn’t just skills or stats—it was his relentless competitive drive.

Jordan famously said, “It became personal with me.”

His obsession with winning and mastering every aspect of the game made him the greatest player ever.

Edwards is showing flashes of that same fire.

His feisty response to Tatum’s isolation plays and his dedication to improving every offseason echo MJ’s legendary work ethic.

Interestingly, Edwards’ journey wasn’t always smooth.

When he was drafted in 2020, many favored LaMelo Ball as the number one pick.

Ball had professional experience overseas, a famous basketball family, and a flashy style that captivated fans.

Edwards, on the other hand, admitted he didn’t even watch much basketball growing up and seemed less polished.

Even Steve Kerr, the Warriors coach and USA Basketball head coach, initially doubted Edwards’ drive.

Kerr reportedly told Edwards he might be better suited as a sixth man rather than a starter, citing concerns about his competitive intensity compared to stars like Steph Curry and Kevin Durant.

That critique lit a fire under Edwards.

He committed to grueling workouts and relentless improvement, transforming himself into a fierce competitor and a leader on the court.

The difference between Edwards and Ball has become stark.

While Ball has struggled to make the playoffs, Edwards has steadily improved his shooting, passing, and floor leadership, proving skeptics wrong.

Edwards’ breakout moment came on the international stage during the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Despite initial doubts about his role, he emerged as Team USA’s leading scorer, averaging 18.9 points per game.

His performance outshined other contenders like Cam Johnson and silenced critics who questioned his ability to thrive under pressure.

Now, Edwards is carrying the Timberwolves on his back, turning a once-mediocre team into a legitimate playoff threat.

His ability to take over games in clutch moments recalls the early days of other NBA dynasties—the Warriors in 2012, the Heat in 2003, and yes, the Bulls in 1984.

Of course, winning an NBA title is the ultimate test.

The Timberwolves have struggled closing out tight games, forcing Edwards to sometimes abandon the playbook and rely on sheer willpower and talent.

But if history teaches us anything, it’s that teams often stumble before they soar—if they have the right leader.

Edwards might just be that leader.

Is Anthony Edwards the next Michael Jordan?

Is he already the best two-way wing in the league?

Can the Timberwolves break through and win a championship this season?

Only time will tell.

But one thing is clear: the once-skeptical whispers have turned into a roar.

Edwards’ blend of athleticism, skill, and competitive fire is making believers out of even the harshest doubters.