Peyton Watson’s description of guarding Anthony Edwards shows how the Timberwolves star has developed into one of the NBA’s most complete scorers.
Anthony Edwards has earned another significant compliment from one of the NBA players tasked with slowing him down.
New Cleveland Cavaliers wing Peyton Watson identified Edwards as one of the league’s most difficult defensive assignments during an appearance on the “Curious Mike” podcast.
“Anthony Edwards is super tough to defend because he’s so explosive, but he also shoots 40% from three,” Watson said.
“Explosive, strong, fast. A little bit lower center of gravity than me. So, like, he’s someone that in the past, like, I’ve had problems with guarding. I’ve had some games I guarded him pretty well, and we won the game, but I’ve had games when he’s torching us.”
That assessment carries weight because Watson has regularly been assigned to elite scorers throughout his career. His length, athleticism and shot-blocking ability helped him emerge as a valuable defensive wing with the Denver Nuggets before joining Cleveland.
Edwards No Longer Relies on Athleticism
Edwards has always overwhelmed defenders with his strength and explosiveness. The difference now is that opponents can no longer protect themselves by giving him space.
The Minnesota Timberwolves star shot 39.9% from three during the 2025-26 season, making Watson’s rounded description accurate. Edwards can attack a defender’s leverage, overpower smaller guards and punish opponents who retreat behind the three-point line.
That combination creates an almost impossible decision. Playing Edwards closely allows him to use his first step and strength to reach the paint. Giving him additional room creates comfortable pull-up opportunities.
May 12, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guardAnthonyEdwards(5) shoots over San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first half of game five of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn ImagesWatson also mentioned Edwards’ lower center of gravity. That physical advantage allows Edwards to absorb contact, maintain his balance and change directions without surrendering control of the possession.
Watson Brings Valuable Experience to Cleveland
Watson will not face Edwards as frequently after moving from the Western Conference to Cleveland, but those battles should help prepare him for his new responsibilities.
The Cavaliers will need dependable wing defenders against Eastern Conference stars such as Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Watson’s experience guarding Edwards should make him more comfortable accepting those assignments.
May 12, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guardAnthonyEdwards(5) drives to the basket during the first half of game five of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn ImagesHis comments also illustrate the respect Edwards has earned around the league. Praise from another player is especially meaningful when it comes from someone who has personally attempted to defend him across multiple games.
Edwards has developed from an exciting young scorer into one of the NBA’s most feared offensive players. His outside shooting has removed one of the few defensive strategies teams could previously use against him.
Watson occasionally found ways to contain Edwards, but he also experienced what happens when Minnesota’s franchise star solves the matchup. His honest evaluation captures the challenge every defender now faces: Edwards can beat opponents with athleticism, strength or skill, and taking away one option usually opens another.
