Not Nikola Jokic, LeBron James' agent Rich Paul declares Timberwolves' star is best in the business

Rich Paul has once again ignited a league-wide debate by naming Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards as NBA’s best player. During his recent appearance on the Game Over podcast with Max Kellerman, the Klutch Sports founder argued that Edwards’ nightly dominance and competitive impact have pushed him past the other MVP candidates.

Paul’s comments come as Edwards continues to surge forward and has transitioned from a rising star into one of the most talked-about faces of the league. Especially with the recent All-Star appearance, where Anthony Edwards flipped the script by winning the Kobe Bryant trophy after not making it to the starters. He was selected as a Western Conference reserve, and despite the snub, he ruled the weekend with 32 points and 9 rebounds in three games for the USA Stars.

Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards is the best NBA player for Rick Paul

Rich Paul is not a person who would back down when he has something to say. Be it giving an ultimatum to Mavs’ front office for Davis’ trade or suggesting Lakers should trade Austin Reeves for Jaren Jackson Jr., Paul has his own perspectives. Adding to this collection is his latest comment on Anthony Edwards, who is making waves with his agility and athleticism.


He stated, “I still think it’s a community, but I think that community is led by Anthony Edwards. I think Anthony Edwards is the best player in our league today.”


His comment earned a surprised expression from Kellerman for whom Nikola Jokic is the NBA's golden standard. To this Paul added, “Anthony Edwards is the best player. You can’t watch a game on any given night against anybody and look at that game and say ‘oh that person is better than Anthony Edwards.’ I love Jokic, but no.”


After leading the Timberwolves to their second consecutive Western Conference Finals in 2025, Ant-Man is solidifying his status as a premium offensive force. He is currently averaging this season’s 3rd best PPG with 29.3, while averaging 5.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists. Edwards is currently shooting at an efficiency of 49.3% from the field and 40.2 % from the deep, a significant jump from the 2024-25 campaign, where he averaged 27.6 points on 44.7% from floor and 39.5% from the arc.

Rich Paul fields Edwards vs. Jokic debate

Nikola Jokic, remains the ultimate litmus test in professional basketball, and Paul’s comparing Anthony Edwards to him is like a nod to the 24 years old's excellence. The Serbian sensation is a three-time MVP, and continues to remain Nuggets' primary offensive and defensive force. This season, Jokic has played in 39 games and has averaged 28.7 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.7 assists. In contrast to Edwards, Jokic leads in pure scoring average and perimeter defensive versatility, and has a higher floor shooting with 59.0%.

Though Paul acknowledged that the NBA’s community is filled with exceptional talents, from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to Luka Doncic. But for him, Anthony Edwards’ current trajectory and individual brilliance set him apart from the rest.

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