Magic Johnson (L), Anthony Edwards (R). Credits: USA TODAY Sports
Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson has become the latest NBA great to respond to Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards‘ controversial comments about players’ skills in the 1990s. Furthermore, in a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, Edwards claimed that Michael Jordan was the only player from that era who truly had skill.
Johnson’s Response
Johnson, a five-time NBA champion and three-time Finals MVP, didn’t hold back in his response to Edwards’ remarks. During a speaking engagement, Johnson told ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, “I never respond to a guy who’s never won a championship. He didn’t win a college championship; I don’t even know if he won a high school championship.”
Lack of Championship Pedigree
The 23-year-old Edwards, who was the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, led the Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals last season before falling to the Dallas Mavericks. However, Johnson emphasized that Edwards lacks the championship pedigree to make such sweeping statements about past generations of players.
Reactions from NBA Legends
Edwards’ comments have sparked a wave of reactions from NBA legends and fans alike. Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas also weighed in on social media, warning Edwards about the dangers of believing “propaganda” regarding past eras of basketball.
The Importance of Respecting Accomplishments
Edwards admitted he hadn’t watched much basketball from the 1990s but insisted that Jordan was the only truly skilled player from that era. However, Johnson’s response suggests that Edwards’ lack of championship success undermines his credibility when discussing the greatness of players from previous eras.
Conclusion
Magic Johnson, a former NCAA champion, Olympic gold medalist, and one of the most decorated players in NBA history, carries significant weight in the basketball community with his opinion and his dismissive attitude towards Anthony Edwards’ comments highlights the generational divide and emphasizes the importance of respecting past legends’ accomplishments.
Edwards may or may not respond to Johnson’s scathing remarks, but one thing remains clear: the young Timberwolves star has ruffled the feathers of some of the greatest players to ever grace the hardwood.
