Interesting, Randall explains why Edwards is so similar to Kobe Bryant

Minnesota Timberwolves star forward Julius Randle shares the similarities between superstar guard Anthony Edwards and Kobe Bryant.

Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota Timberwolves to lead the Golden State Warriors 3-1 in the series. Randall was impressed by Edwards' mental state and fighting spirit and boldly compared the rising star with Lakers idol Kobe Bryant.

"I have come into contact with a lot of great players. He has confidence in himself... just like Kobe. And I was with Kobe," Randall said in an interview with ESPN.

Anthony Edwards cemented his position among the top NBA players. He significantly improved his perimeter defense and three-point shooting percentage – aspects that had previously been worrying. In addition to his physical fitness and continuous contribution, his focused mentality and growing leadership temperament have also made him stand out among many young players.

"He is fearless, he is eager to seize every opportunity. His belief and confidence in his player identity is the highest of all people I have ever met and met," Randall continued.

One of the key factors in the Minnesota Timberwolves' first-round victory over the Los Angeles Lakers was Julius Randle's outstanding performance. The forward averaged 22.6 points per game and shot as high as 39.3% from three-pointers, which continued to punish the Lakers' excessive investment in Anthony Edwards. Randall's performance also reflects his personal advantage, and the victory in this series is also a little reward he made for the Timberwolves in the first year. Randall was originally drafted by the Lakers in the 2014 NBA Draft and spent his first four seasons in Los Angeles. His first two years were in the twilight years of Kobe Bryant’s career, which provided Randall with a unique opportunity to learn directly from the Lakers idol.

Anthony Edwards' joy and fighting spirit on the court

Unlike Kobe Bryant, Anthony Edwards often has obvious joy in the game - but this does not mean that he takes the game lightly. Like Kobe, Edwards has unremitting fighting spirit. He is not just eager to win; he is eager to dominate the game and leave his mark every time he steps on the court. The higher the risk, the stronger his concentration—he always improves himself when facing top opponents.

With that being said, Edwards' indomitable mentality does not mean that he will do his best. While he is fully capable of controlling the game at critical moments, his first priority is to make informed choices—even if it means giving up opportunities and putting teammates in a better position.

Edwards consciously engages everyone, ensures teammates get opportunities and celebrates their success. This method is not Kobe's style all along - but to be fair, Kobe often has no most reliable support around him.

The three-time All-Star player is gradually growing into a true offense and defense player, and is steadily improving every season. Anthony Edwards now leads the Timberwolves just one win away from returning to the Western Conference Finals. He has made it clear that he will not let anyone block his way forward.